Folk Song in the Wind Band Music of Haydn Wood: Mannin Veen and a New Performing Edition of the Seafarer
Abstract
Nestled between England and Ireland, one can find a tiny island called the Isle of Man, or more simply, Mann. One of its most famous musical representatives is composer and violinist Haydn Wood. In an effort to preserve and promote the fine music and culture of the Isle of Man in general, and the work of Haydn Wood in particular, the author analyzed two wind band works written by the composer. Mannin Veen draws directly on the musical heritage of Mann. The Seafarer, which has been out of print for many years, does not use Manx musical traditions directly, but is inspired by songs of the sea. It should briefly be noted here that the word “Manx” is a reference to the linguistic and cultural traditions of Mann in the same way that “Welsh” refers to the language and culture of Wales. As an island, the sea is a constant presence and influence in the life of its people. As such, the songs used by sailors in their work form an important element of Manx culture and tradition. Haydn Wood incorporated several traditional sea songs in The Seafarer. Therefore, through these two works, one can see the influence of folk music on Haydn Wood’s body of work. Finally, as part of an effort to bring The Seafarer back to recognition, if not prominence, the author has created a new performing edition in the hopes that it might once again be published and made available to the repertoire of wind bands everywhere.