A dozen of the most beautiful traditional melodies from the British Isles and North America are arranged here as concert pieces, with rich harmonies and variations. Carefully voiced and fingered for fluidity and effectiveness, the collection offers a wide range of style and expression. “Barbara Allen” and “The Three Ravens” are strongly influenced by the Elizabethan lute tradition, while “John Riley” and “Come All Ye Fair and Tender Ladies” have a more contemporary feel. “Black Is the Color of My True Love’s Hair” and “Lament for Owen Roe O’Neill” are studies in somber intensity, the modal “She Moved Through the Fair” sounds the ancient connection between Arabic and Celtic music, and “Banks of the Ohio” provides an interlude of gentle bluegrass swing, with a hint of gospel.

The author has provided five videos of him playing selections from this book:

Shenandoah: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HqPQLMgqzE

Down by the Salley Gardens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feuDQX5N-Lw

John Riley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8-f7ZR8rHY

The Three Ravens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yx0GPVCTd4c

She Moved Through the Fair: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXAlr6H63VY