Variations on an Enigma - Philip Sparke

Variations on Shalom Chaverim - Andreas Ludwig Schulte

Shalom Chaverim is an ancient Hebrew (farewell)song, which was originally sung at the end of a celebration or meeting. It was and is mostly sung as a round. Freely translated the words mean "Goodbye, friends, goodbye and see you again!". The varying moods at a parting have been captured very well by Andreas Schulte in his arrangement 'Variations on Shalom Chaverim'. The composer himself says about the song, 'Although the melody is in a minor key, the overall atmosphere in the song is positive. one wishes each other all the best. Saying goodbye, however, also hurts. When you slow down the pace of the melody and add 'blue notes' in the harmonies, this can be sensed immediately.'Schulte refers here to the first variation. The second variation is very intense with possibly even deeper-felt emotions. 'Variations on Shalom Chaverim' ends on a cheerful and positive note, in fast tempo, and with oriental elements in the melody: 'L'hitra'ot, Shalom' (See you again, and farewell!).

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Variations on the Shining River

Variazioni in Blue - Jacob de Haan

Variazioni in Blue is a series of variations in which elements from the Blues, such as the specific 'blue notes', run throughout the piece. Following a stately introduction, which includes part of the theme, is an ornamental variation in 'classical style'. We then hear a variation in 'Blues style", followed by a fast variation with an Eastern European folklore feel. The 'Andante con espressivo' is particularly fine with its attractive harmonic changes. This variation develops into a repeat of the previous folklore variations with its 'major' variation forming a climax towards the end.

Variety of Skills - Hermann Pallhuber

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Vaterlandischer Marsch - Josef Strauss

Vaya Chicos - Jérôme Naulais

Vem kan segla forutan vind

Who can Sail without the Wind is an old folk tune from Aland in Finland. I believe the song was one of the first one I learnt to sing and play on the guitar. The melancholic character of the song is something I have brought with me ever since.

Venkovanka - Bedrich Smetana

Venner - Halvdan Sivertsen

This pop-song written and performed by Halvdan Sivertsen was first released on the record album "Hilsen Halvdan" in 1991. Since then, is has been a classic song in Norway. The lyrics is about the benefits of having a lifelong friendship. This arrangement can be performed with SATB choir but works very well also as an instrumental piece. Choir parts are available for purchase separately.

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