Not sure how to play from the notes below? Check out our TUTORIAL
About the song and notes for recorder
Embarking on the journey to learn an instrument can be a transformative experience, especially with the recorder, an instrument that holds a unique place in both historical and modern music circles. One song that stands out in the recorder learning process, particularly for those using the “Recorder Songbook with Pictures,” is “The Leaving of Liverpool.” This folk song, with its roots deeply embedded in the maritime history of the 19th century, tells the poignant tale of a sailor bidding farewell to his beloved Liverpool and the love he leaves behind, capturing the essence of the sea, adventure, and longing. The song, attributed to a wide range of composers due to its folk origins, has been passed down through generations, solidifying its place in the cultural heritage of sea shanties and folk music.
For beginners, whether they are kids picking up their first recorder book or adults seeking to delve into music through a recorder learning book for adults, “The Leaving of Liverpool” presents an accessible entry point. The melody is straightforward yet evocative, embodying the song’s emotional depth without requiring advanced technical skills. The use of picture notation for the recorder in the recorder songbook makes it even easier to start playing immediately. The song’s lyrics, “Farewell to you, my own true love, I am going far away, I am bound for California, but I know that I’ll return someday,” resonate with themes of departure and hopeful return, echoing the universal human experience of saying goodbye. Learning to play “The Leaving of Liverpool” on the recorder not only introduces beginners to the joys of music-making but also connects them to a piece of musical history that has touched countless hearts across the globe.
Some of the notes on our website contain the full version of the song, and some are excerpts, or for example the very beginning, chorus or verse, etc. Full versions of all the notes can be found in our books and e-books: SHOP.
