Whaleman's Saga (Band Gr. 2)

Whaleman’s Saga is an engaging piece chock full of authentic sea chanteys to depict a typical 19th century whale hunt. Through the music, your students can learn exactly how the shanties powered the whale hunting boats of the time period! Lyrics are provided in the parts so students are encouraged to sing the passages to bring this musical voyage to life! All of the singing passages can also be played on the instruments instead.

Genre: Band | # of Players: Standard
Series: Sapphire Band Series
Level: 2 | Duration: 2:45

Instrumentation
Conductor's Score (8.5x11 stapled booklet)

Flute
Oboe [optional Flute 2]
Bassoon
B-flat Clarinet 1
B-flat Clarinet 2
B-flat Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

B-flat Trumpet 1
B-flat Trumpet 2
F Horn
Trombone
Euphonium
B-flat Euphonium T.C.
Tuba

Timpani (3 drums)
Percussion 1: Xylophone, Bells
Percussion 2: Snare Drum, Bass Drum
Percussion 3: Triangle, Crash Cymbals, Tambourine, Sleigh Bells

Program Notes
This historic work traces a 19th century whale hunt aboard a sailing ship, incorporating authentic sea chanteys to tell the harrowing tale. Complete with optional singing, a whale sighting (“Thar’ she blows!” m. 53), followed by a “Nantucket Sleigh Ride” as the harpooned whale tows the long boat in an effort to escape, your band and audience will enjoy this whaling adventure. Chanteys include “Blow Ye Winds in the Morning” (fo’c’sle ballad), “Yeo, Heave Ho!” (capstan chantey), “Drunken Sailor” and “Haul Away Joe” (two short drag chanteys), “One More Day” (homeward bound chantey) and “Blow the Man Down” (halyard chantey).

Fo'c'sle Ballad - Sung for entertainment in the crews quarters (Forecastle) Capstan Chantey - Sung when raising the anchor Halyard Chantey - Sung when raising the sails (Hauling the Yard) Short Drag Chantey - Sung when trimming the sails (Lowering)