Psalm 137

Description

The tune for Psalm 137 is attributed as a traditional Jewish tune. It was included in a book of canons and rounds by British composer Philip Hayes in 1878 called, The Muses Delight. American artist Don McLean arranged and recorded it on his album American Pie under the title “Babylon. Isaac Wardell adapted the text of Isaiah 53 titled,  By His Wounds and set it to this tune. This arrangement is also based on Philip Hayes original tune from The Muses Delight.

The violin part for Psalm 137 is set at a difficulty Level 6. And it includes passages in 1st – 6th positions. There are sixteenth note arpeggiated passages and some 4 note rolled chords that provide a challenge. Because of the mournfulness of the  tune, players have an opportunity to develop bow control as well as shaping the long phrases.

A simplified part is included that can be used with the same accompaniment. The simplified part is set at a difficulty level 4. It uses 1st and 3rd position with a 4th finger extension for harmonic E6. You will find a grace note before the beat replaces the 4-note chords. Also 1 beat arpeggios replace the long arpeggios.