Wednesday 3 June 2015
Tune of the Day: Ah! May the Red Rose Live Alway!
by Stephen Foster, transcribed for flute and piano
American songwriter Stephen C. Foster wrote this parlor song in 1850. Foster probably hoped that the publication of his parlor ballads helped diversify his reputation as a song composer, but the ballads proved financially unsatisfactory as compared to his minstrel songs. In his account ledger, Foster recorded that “Ah! May the Red Rose Live Alway!” had earned a mere $8.12 in royalties over a seven-year period. As a result, Foster redirected his compositional efforts to minstrel songs, which averaged much higher returns at that time. Beginning in 1860, Foster returned once more to the sentimental ballad, the most noteworthy being “Beautiful Dreamer”.
Thanks to Frydryk for suggesting this song!