Moon’s Lullaby

(SATB choir, solo, piano, bass)

Program Notes

Bass player Grant Stryckning wrote Moon’s Lullaby when he was a senior at Frostburg State University, and performed it as an instrumental collaboration with his friend, pianist Mirto Dorcil. Its touching harmonies and lyrical melody immediately captivate the listeners and draw them into its unique sonic world. Dr. Scott Rieker, Director of Choral Activities at Frostburg State University, was inspired by this premier performance, and—in conjunction with Grant—composed lyrics and arranged the piece for FSU’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble, who performed it in the spring of 2019. The gentle lyrics—envisioned as singing a child to sleep beneath the gaze of the ever-watchful moon—and straightforward vocal writing underscore the delicacy of the original in this charming new composition.

As with the demonstration recording, the bass player is encouraged to add an improvisatory introduction, and the pianist and guitarist should embellish as their ability and the ability of the vocalists allow. The solo line encompasses almost two octaves and could be divided as necessary amongst singers, but improvising that lick is discouraged. Time is free throughout, with give and take among all the performers, and the last three bars may be taken very freely.

Moon’s Lullaby [PDF]

When the moon in the west
slowly sets, and soon
drowsy eyes, lullabies
singing of the moon. 

Little one, we’ve begun
floating toward the sky,
rising motes, restful notes
wafting slowly by.

 As she shines,
singing softly down to those on earth below,
let your imagination know her,
just sing,
and dance,
and twirl.
And when you doze a little
those two little arms embrace the world. 

Come, let dreams
on their wings,
gently drifty by,
and she sings,
the moon’s lullaby.

Scott Rieker (b. 1976)