Niamh and the Hermit

Music from

The Music of Niamh
While writing Niamh, songs kept popping up as part of the storyline. Perhaps it's because of the world, wherein song is prevalent. Perhaps it's because I grew up in a very musical family, wherein bursting out into song is a part of conversation. Regardless, in this matter as in all others, the folks at ArxPub saw this aspect of the novel and asked whether there wasn't sheet music for the songs. Need you ask? ; )

One of the songs which first appeared was the "Song of Searching" which serves as a major plot point for the novel. The song first started as with the backup melody:

Wander, wander I - (3x)
Over earth and sea,
Over sea and sky,
I -

I fly.

The main melody sung by the Lover and the Beloved came later, and went through many incarnations, finally settling on this:

Lover:

Where hast thou gone my lady love?
Where o'er the earth hast thou gone?
I have been to the mountains,
I have delved in the sea,
I have called to the air,
Sweet Love, come to me.

Beloved:

I have been to the mountains,
I have delved in the sea,
I have flown through the air,
I have not found thee.
I am here, I am hidden
In the heart of the flame
Nor wander, nor flee
Shouldst thou call my name.

What I found most exciting was that all the parts went together - the backup and its echo, as well as both the Lover and the Beloved's songs. Consequently, for the full effect, four singers minimum are required, although the song can be sung solo or as a duet. Click on the link below to hear the various lines of the song. Enjoy!

Song of Searching - "Wander I"
Song of Searching - "Wander I" with echo
Song of Searching - Lover and Beloved
Song of Searching - Full

I apologize in advance for the tinny sound.
Alas, it's the best I can get for now!
Please imagine violins, flutes and pianos. Thank you.

(c) 2003
Updated 2 March, 2003
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