Among the Lilies

Not a lot of information can be found regarding the composer Edward H. Frey. The majority of his works are for mandolin and guitar. Some references to his compositions are found in S. S. Stewart’s Banjo and Guitar Journal.

This work arranged is arranged for violin and is a character piece set in a polka style. Among the Lilies has the form ABBACCABA. The ‘A’ theme is in the key of D,  and the 4 measure introduction returns every time the ‘A’ theme is played. The ‘B’ theme moves to the dominant, A major. Then the ‘C’ theme modulates to the subdominant, G major. Each theme closes with a distinct cadence.  

The tempo markings for the introduction, moderato, and the marking for the ‘A’  theme is allegretto. This gives the indication that the tempo varies although the two markings are similar in speed. Throughout the rest of the piece the tempo adjusts with the use of fermatas, rallentandos and ritardandos. A fermata on beat 4 ends each phrase in the ‘A’ theme with an a tempo marked on beat one of the following phrase.

Bowing techniques used are both legato, detaché, and some brushed-spicatto. The dynamics naturally follow the phrases and 

The left hand will shift between first and third positions throughout. The marked fingering will create some portamentos between a grace note and the principle note. The left hand will be required to shift during brushed spiccato bows as well in slurred bowing. One measure of melodic octaves will take the player into 4th position. The ‘A’ theme ends with 2 triple stops, one in first position and one in 3rd position. The ‘C’ theme ends with a quad-stop using 2 open strings and 2 fingered strings.