TEACHER'S RESOURCE PAGE



Having worked with these scores and kids for many years I have found it helpful to introduce each piece in certain ways that help to understand the background of the music and its setting as well as inspire the imagination and enthusiasm of the kids. On this page are some suggestions that you may find helpful starting points. The pictures below can help to set the mood of this piece. - Keith Sharp

About the CELTIC series:

About FAR FROM HOME

"St. Brendan, who was born in Ireland about 489 and founded a monastery at Clonfert, Galway. According to legend, he and 17 other monks set out on a westward voyage in a curragh, a wood-framed boat covered in sewn ox-hides. The monks sailed about the North Atlantic for seven years, according to details set down in the Navigatio Sancti Brendani Abbatis in the tenth century. The event that St. Brendan is most celebrated for, however, is his voyage to the "Land of Promise", arguably Newfoundland. Only a few survived the journey.

Have your less advanced players explore the rich G string sounds in this lilting, Celtic style piece.
The tune and piano part form the backbone of the piece and can be performed without harmony and bass parts.
Piano becomes optional once all other parts are being played.
An optional vocal line is also provided but pull out the handkerchiefs folks: these words tell a sad story.
A flexible, easy and a very useful piece to have in your library.

Useful points to remember:

· Playing range between 2nd year and 5th year of learning.
· Works well with melody and piano accompaniment.
· Useful study in simple triple meter.
· Vocal line also provided.
· 3rd violin/viola part has the tune all the way through..

Your suggestions are important and welcome!

If you have some additional suggestions that can help in the classroom, please share them with us. We will add your comments to this page to make it a richer resource for everybody. Simply send an e-mail (suggestions@musichouse.com.au).