The Ballad of the White Horse, Op. 22 (2023)

• for solo voice with piano

  • ca. 6:00

  • Commissioned by Aidan Jones, baritone

Program Notes - written by Aidan Jones

• The Ballad of the White Horse draws inspiration from traditional Celtic music and English art songs. The lyrics are taken from G.K. Chesterton’s 1911 poem of the same name, which tells the story of King Alfred, whose kingdom is being overrun by heathen invaders. He receives a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who gives him new hope even while warning him that the darkest days are yet to come. Through Mary’s intercession, Alfred and his small band of followers are eventually victorious despite being outnumbered by pagan forces. Chesterton’s poetry suggests that this specific victory symbolizes the broader victory of Christianity over paganism. This piece was commissioned by Aidan Jones in 2023 as part of a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship project.