Today's post presents a new setting of a beautiful slow air by Pipe Major William Ross, Leaving St. Kilda. Take a listen: The tune has always been played in this lovely 6/8 rhythm — which gives the tune a rolling, lullaby-like feel. But, inexplicably, the tune was originally published in 2/4 rhythm in the W. Ross Collection. So, here it is written out the way we actually play the tune, in 6/8. Download the sheet music for Leaving St Kilda. A few things to watch out for: Watch the rhythms, especially of the short notes. The sixteenth notes are cut short, but the eighth notes are not as short. Listen to the recording. To get a hang of the rhythm, trying tapping your foot with 6 beats to each bar — on each eighth note. Keep your doublings and other embellishments clear and open. It's a slow air, so try to bring out the beauty ...
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