The Engaged Girl

Description

This arrangement of a heartfelt Ukrainian folk melody with a pizzicato introduction will give students an opportunity to play from the heart as they are transported back to a time when Eastern European folk orchestras would perform in village squares to appreciative crowds.

Program Notes

A young man sings a song of love and loss to his sweetheart, who has been promised to another man. This arrangement of a heartfelt Ukrainian folk melody will give students an opportunity to play with their most singing and expressive tones as they are transported back in time to the days when traditional Eastern European folk orchestras would perform in village squares for very appreciative crowds.

A short pizzicato introduction sets the tone before the main melody is introduced in the first Violins, then is passed from section to section, supported by a warm and moving Bass line. Contrapuntal melodies wind around the main theme as the piece progresses, leading to a playful pizzicato section in the middle before bows return to the strings. The main theme then builds once again before it gently and sweetly comes to rest.
Set in the key of A minor, “The Engaged Girl” plays like a slow waltz. With its singing melodic lines and dance-like feel, this arrangement is a love letter to the citizens of Ukraine.