Unison Voices and Piano, with Optional Descant
Words and Music by Sister Polly Rupe (1826-1875)
Arranged by Earlene Rentz
Shaker humility song
Moderate Difficulty
Free with Purchase: Accompaniment MP3, Individual Voice Parts MP3s, and Rehearsal Preparation Sheet
Also available: 2-Part, SSA, 3-Part Mixed
Duration ca. 2:15
The words of Sister Polly M. Rupe (1826-1875) are appropriate for any time and any situation. The text:
What the dew is to the flower, gentle words are to the soul,
And a blessing to the giver we should never withhold.
Gentle words kindly spoken, often soothe the troubled mind,
while links of love are broken by words that are unkind.
The simple melody is in a minor key, and a wide range (8va+P4) sometimes requires that it be “passed around” among the voices. Two verses are followed by a modulation up a half step to Verse Three (canonic material, descant). This gentle song reminds all of us to use gentle words with our friends and family.
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