w21049
| Title | White Cliffs of Dover, The |
| Contributors |
Walter Kent (composer) James Robertson (arranger) Nat Burton (author) |
| Composition date | 2021 |
| Duration (mins) | 0 |
| Category | choral secular |
| Instrumentation | SATB |
| Commissioned by | |
| Key signature | |
| First line | Going over cliffs of Dover |
| First performed | |
| Notes | |
| Programme Note | It is often said that no matter how good an arrangement might be, it can never be better than the original composition. For example, when we hear a song for the first time, the memory and association of that experience remain vivid and poignant; perhaps nostalgic. This choral arrangement of the classic wartime song ‘The White Cliffs of Dover’ does not pretend to emulate the original version with which we are all familiar. Quite simply, that would not be possible. The gentle, almost free-flowing interpretation made famous by Dame Vera Lynn cannot be surpassed. My aim, therefore, has been to approach this song from a different angle. The words “love and laughter” suggest a feeling of unbridled joy and an element of humour. It is this aspect that I have chosen to focus on and thereby allow a sense of carefree fun to be felt by those performing and listening to this version. Likewise, I have taken certain liberties with the words by adding some of my own. Yet the final two words of this arrangement – “With peace” – serve to remind us of the sacrifice that so many paid in ensuring that this can indeed be experienced by those of us today. |
This work is associated with the following collection items:
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