Paul McKay

“Irish Blessing” Orientation Page

Elementary Choral Practices

“Irish Blessing”
Arranged by Bob Chilcott (b. 1951)

Pitch
Vocal Line: Lyrical, flowing, consistently outlining tonic and dominant chords
Tonality: G Major (begins sol — do).

Phrase Structure: Consistent 4-bar phrases.

Texture: Begins with soprano & alto unison, followed by SATB. Accompanied by piano or
organ.
Vocal Range: Soprano: D4-E5, Alto: A3-E5, Tenor: D3-E4, Bass: G2-G3

Time
Meter: Simple quadruple
Meter Signature: Common (4/4)
Conduct: In 4

Tempo: Quarter note = 92

Characteristic Rhythm: Varied
Performance Time: 2:30
Text
Source: Traditional Irish text, originated from ancient Celtic prayer.
Theme: The text beautifully describes God’s blessing for your journey. With faith and the
blessing of God, your journey will be at ease.

Form
A-B-A’-B’

Style
Very gentle and lyrical. Should be treated as standard, western choral music. The phrasing and
text of the piece will naturally guide the other musical elements.

Social-Historical
The text of this piece is deeply rooted in ancient Celtic-Irish tradition. Celtic text consistently
uses imagery of nature and everyday life, and how God interacts with His people. This prayer
text has been of spoken tradition, passed from generation to generation, and altered over time.
There is no direct origin/person for this song, as for most ancient Celtic traditions.