Turn the Dark Cloud Inside Out

Ivor Novello (1893-1951)

Choral level of difficulty: 1-2 (5 greatest)

This short song for children’s voices, wind quintet (flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, bassoon) and handbells uses the words by Lena Guilbert Ford written in the first World War (‘Keep the home fires burning’) and made famous by Ivor Novello’s setting. It was written for the 2018 Cumnock Tryst festival when it was conducted by the composer.

The music is simple and the accompaniment entirely supportive. Only three pages of score long it is extended by the use of repeated sections, the main central one having simple ATB chords embellished by a fluid, gently hummed soprano reverie.

Repertoire Note by Paul Spicer