Bushranger's Ballad (Loreta Fin) for String Orchestra

Level 2 Duration 2’ 30”

My mother often speaks of her grandmother, Annie Hall, who was the niece of Ben Hall, the famous Australian bushranger (or outlaw). Ben Hall was born in 1837. He and his associates carried out many raids across New South Wales. Unlike many bushrangers of the era, Ben Hall was not directly responsible for any deaths, although several of his associates were. He was killed by police in May 1865. Students might like to research more about bushrangers and outlaws. This melancholy ballad, in an e minor tonality, is reminiscent of early Australian bush music, based on Irish Folk tradition. It uses dotted rhythms and requires careful counting of rests. The piano part is optional but assists to keep the melody flowing.

MusicFest String Orchestra Selections 2020 - Grade: Primary A