This edition was prepared by David Anderson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Avenging and bright
Staff Notation • Secular, Partsongs, Folk songs
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Avenging and bright — Lyrics
Avenging and bright fall the swift sword of Erin
On him who the brave sons of Usna betray’d! —
For every fond eye he hath waken’d a tear in
A drop from his heartwounds shall weep o’er her blade.
By the red cloud that hung over Conor’s dark dwelling,
When Ulad’s three champions lay sleeping in gore —
By the billows of war, which so often, high swelling,
Have wafted these heroes to victory’s shore —
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About Avenging and bright
A stirring call to vengeance, Avenging and bright is a powerful setting of traditional Irish lyrics. This SATB arrangement captures the fierce determination of the text, which speaks of avenging the betrayal of the sons of Usna. The music would lend itself well to a concert setting, particularly one with a dramatic or nationalistic theme, or perhaps for a programme of folk song arrangements. The choir will need to convey the raw emotion of the lyrics, from the initial pronouncements of retribution to the solemn oath to abstain from joy until justice is served. It is a visceral expression of loyalty and righteous anger.
