In the winter of 1984 my two sons had stopped to help a woman who's car was stuck in the snow, part on and part off the road. They got behind the car and pushed. A truck coming down the same road never saw them or the car and hit them, the woman was critical, but the boys were killed. The boys loved music and played in the high school band, there music director had heard this song played at the annual Ashokan fiddle Dance Camp, He then suggested this might be appropriate to be played at the boys funeral, in our living room we heard this song played for the first time. On the day of the funeral orchestra members from high schools from all over Montana came to play the Ashokan Farewell, Perhaps you cry as I do when I hear this tune, but it is the music like this and others that bind us together. So as I am listening to this music perhaps you are as well, and the miles vanish and time has no meaning, and for a few moments we are kinsmen, brought together by our love of music.
Hilleary Brown I got halfway through your post before I could not see through my tears. I humbly ask you accept my most sincere condolences for your tragic loss. Beyond this, I don't have words.
I selected this to be played at my wife's funeral last July, a week after her 90th birthday. She now rests in the Dallas National Cemetery where I will go when it's my time.
My maternal Great-Great Grandfather fought at the Battle of Little Round Top at Gettysburg - He survived....so I could write this: This is one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written.
My Great Great grandfather on my Father's side was going to the Battle of Gettysburg but was shot and injured before the actual battle so he was honorable discharged and sent home.
My great great great grandfather, Pleasant Harte Wilson, fought for the Union at the Battle of Atlanta. He wouldn't talk about it. When I read up about the battle, I saw why
A great great Uncle on my mothers side, John Robert Langston, Confederate 5th North Carolina iInfantry was killed at the battle of Williamsburg. I too can relate to thus beautiful song.
"Sarah!! do not mourn me dead, but think I am only gone and wait for me for we shall meet again." Who can ever forget that letter being read in Ken Burn's film as this is played!!
"never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battle field, it will whisper your name." The education system in the mid 19th century may have lacked the latest technological gadgets, but they definitely knew how to teach people the English language and how to compose it. To read this most eloquent letter by Union Army Major Jeff Sullivan Ballou, go to www.pbs.org/kenburns/civil-war/war/historical-documents/sullivan-ballou-letter/
Major Ballou died in the first battle of Bull Run in 1861 at the young age of 32. His wife, Sarah Sullivan Ballou, died 55 years later in 1917. She never remarried. How could she after reading her husband's last words of love for her. You can find out more about the Ballou's and see photos of them and their adjacent graves at www.findagrave.com/memorial/8219968/sarah-hart-ballou
When I learned that The Ashokan Farewell was "new" and not a civil war era classic, I was stunned. It is as timeless as it hauntingly beautiful. One time through and the listener knows it will far far outlive Unger and us all.
'The Ashhokan Farewll' is a piece that symbolizes America in one of her most darkest of hours. May all those whom paid in blood durning The Civil War rest in peace...
I first heard this hauntingly beautiful melody many years ago when the Ken Burns Civil War series originally aired on TV. It brought me to tears as I listened to it back then. Three odd years ago, when I undertook the difficult task of choosing the funeral music for my terminally ill father's wake, I decided to include Ashokan Farewell in my selections. When it played there was hardly a dry eye at that funeral home. There is not a dry eye now as I write this while listening to it once again. Rest in peace dad.
I pressed the dislike symbol by mistake and I apologise for that. In fact I have absolutely love this tune since I first heard in the 90s with the series the American Civil War.
This particular rendition is played by the band of the British Royal Marines. The soloist is Major J.R.Perkins. It's also very popular on this side of the pond. I think it's played more often as a tribute to the fallen in all wars. It's sad refrain makes it very fitting for that purpose.
I know it may not have any significance to the meaning of the song but please listen. A few years ago, talking to my 80-something year old Grandmother, she told me of how beautiful she found this song and how much she loved it. Played it for her from yt. My grandmother past away just over a year ago. We played this song at her month remembrance service. Just as the shivers went down my back and tears came to my eyes that day, its been the same way listening to this song ever since. RIP x
This was my Grandad's favourite Piece, I'm Only 15 and when I discovered that I was playing this with my orchestra I was overjoyed, it always took me back to when he was alive and he asked me to play it at his funeral, so I did for him, thank you for putting this piece up, much appreciated
This was a favourite piece for George. A man I have known all 52 years of my life along with his lovely wife. I called him Uncle George, even though we weren't related. He died 13/12/18 aged 88 and this music was played today at the funeral service in the church of a small village in the countryside in Scotland. For now listening to this, I cry, but soon it will evoke fond memories and I will smile. God bless you George
It reminds me always now of the Civil War. All who fought and all who died. It will forever touch my heart and soul. Someone once told me that all I did was cry when the series was on and yes that I did. How could you not crying all those men dead before their time. If the Civil war had no other effect on America than the gaping holes in the lives of families and communities and the hearts and souls of all Americans we were changed forever. It is a most beautiful piece of music.
This was the first waltz at our wedding. Apart from being beautifully simple it reminds me (if it was needed) of how much I love my wife the the mother of my children.
This is a beatiful song, I dont think any individual could say that this song represents anything other than the 'pain, sorrows, and rewards of 'liberty'. Liberty is often diluted by insincerity; this song feels true in my opinion.
Having heard him speak, I doubt Liberty was on Ungar's mind. As I recall, he said he was feeling melancholy at the end of his fiddle camp one year and started playing his fiddle and this is what came out.
This always brings me to tears, especially when I think of Sullivan Ballou's letter in Ken Burns The Civil War. Anyone who would give this a thumbs down has no heart or soul.
myra allan I've driven past Gettysburg twice in the past year but had no time to stop. I sincerely regret that, but I will go someday! And when I do, "Ashokan Farewell" will probably be playing in the back of my head.
And yet we still war with each other. There are just different names on each side, if only we could each listen to the beautiful haunting melody of Ashokan Farewell and tender our hearts toward each other.
One day I began watching the whole Ken Burns series about the American civil war and quite naturally got hooked on this enchanted and rather sad theme song. Obviously it took me a while to plough through the series, but every night after seeing an episode I would fall asleep playing Ashokan Farewell in my head. Being a part time musician I decided to learn it on my instrument and today it's part of my repertoire. It's a classic and I never tire listening or playing it.
This is one of the most soul evoking music I have ever heard and stirs the sadness of the most tragic of all conflicts when father fights son and brother fight brother! We as a species never learns and yet are hearts are stirred to create the most moving of music.
I had a violin trio play this when I buried my husband in March 2014 in Gettysburg Pennsylvania. Perfect and it was beautiful. Brings tears to my eyes today.
***** Still reminding me of the North. And I heard of this song is written in 1982. But still kinda a Civil War song. And the Confederates were the worst. They want to keep a unnecessary society.
***** Yes, but give the patriot his due; it's associated with the series "The Civil War." A Ken Burns production, it was wonderfully balanced so that any reasonable person could understand the sadness involved on both sides, north and south. It made the English Civil War of roundheads vs. royals look like a skirmish!
I just got a companion for my parakeet, and it didn't go so smoothly. She's very over-stimulated, and was chasing and pecking at the new bird. I wanted to try a little music experiment with her, and came across this song. I don't know what everyone is referring to about war or a documentary, so I didn't have any emotional bias. It is very soothing and beautiful, even without the history of it. My two birds, and surprisingly, my pug, were all calmed down and asleep within 2-3 minutes. It's refreshing to have "real" music back in the house. It will be a new habit, I'm sure.
I love this music, and yes it makes me cry. The years vanish and I go back to when my young son was with us, I found this music by accident and we played it as they carried my son into church for his funeral . Even though it makes me cry , it is a beautiful piece of music. Miss you son xx
I think if this song doesn't touch your heart then you're dead inside. I cry when I hear this theme in the civil war documentaries and think of all the young soldiers who died. The thing is, it actually sounds like a civil war era song.
Correct, this is a piece by Jay Unger ... Ken Burns loved it and felt the way it so appropriately fit the themes of his wonderful documentary of the Civil War tragedy..
I am tired and sick of war. Its glory is all moonshine. It is only those who have neither fired a shot nor heard the shrieks and groans of the wounded who cry aloud for blood, for vengeance, for desolation. War is hell. -William T. Sherman
william l Eh? He was a great general, not the Mongol horde or Adolf Hitler. He knew exactly what he had to do and did it in quite a humane way. If you want to find out about horrible things done in unconscionable fashion during the Civil War look into the prison Andersonville in Georgia. Try the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by McKinley Kantor.
I'm only 14 years old and I don't live in the US. I generally likes to study history so I decided to watch the Ken Burns series, and I can't believe I cried when it talked about the Emancipation Proclamation and when they first played the full piece.
Shove your right-wing Christy fundamental b*shit where the sun don't shine.This site is about a beautiful piece of music, and a horrible war. Go peddle your papers somewhere else.
孙明亮 dont believe all you hear about the emancipation proclamation, it only freed slaves supposedly in the southern states, what about the slaves in the north.
I am glad you are interested in our history and our terrible civil war. Yes, it is normal to cry because of this song, and the context in which it is heard.This shows that you are a sensitive soul, one capable of feeling and experiencing. Please work hard not to lose this, we need more like you. Go in Peace and do good my friend!
For years I portrayed Gen.Robert E.Lee for the American Civil War Association...at the end of each dance this haunting melody was played and I danced with my daughter Rachel... now at 71 I find myself reminiscing about the events and how much I loved this tune and being able to dance with her to it's beautiful strains! She's now married and a Mom of a georgeous little girl...I'm hoping that I'll live long enough to dance to the tune with her as I did with her Mother!
I am a living historian and musician for this period, and I would gladly play this for you and your granddaughter to dance to! I get asked for it all the time, still decades after the Ken Burns series made it famous. It never loses it's beauty. :)
Probably the greatest tune to symbolize the American Civil War of ALL times! As a member of the ACWA(American Civil War Association) I portrayed Gen.Robert E.Lee...at my final event this tune was played and I danced with my 17 year old daughter...for the last time! She's now 33 and has 2 children of her own...but I still cry thinking of those halcyon days and thank the Almighty the joy they brought to my family!
I have always loved this piece. I too want it played at my funeral when it is my time to go. I want it played as my family and friends pass by me for the last time.
I had bunked off school and was watching the series Civil War by Ken Burns, it would be years before I would see the series again. Ashokan Farewell stuck with me from those early years and I am as moved now as I was then by this haunting tune. As I recall the images of that most carefully compiled series I am moved in a way that only the birth and accomplishments of my daughter can match.
No, it was Jay Ungar a Jewish-American folk musician /composer from the Bronx, NY. It was composed in the style of a "Scottish lament". Its called making "art". People can do this....
+BroadcastDr We lost about 620 thousand. And at the same time, the Taiping Rebellion was ending in China. Almost 30 million died. Ours was and is a vicious species.
+wholeNwon Our war: 4 years Their war: 14 years Our war: One nation fighting itself Their war: Fighting themselves along with the British and French (two global, imperialist powers might I add) joining in.
Incredible music and I learned to play it from the Civil War series - the letter to Sarah - oh what tears - going through Antietam battle field, bloody lane - after more than 100 years - the sadness and feelings at that time prevail in present day. Even though this piece is not old, it typifies the era. Hauntingly beautiful.
I live in a Country School built in 1864 I, think about the Civil War a lot as I look around the school were i live, this song brings a tier to my eyes thinking about President Lincolns death and I think about the children who learned about his murder in this building. We must learn from our past. RIP President Lincoln
This is one of the most beautiful, most spiritual tunes ever written. It so evokes the tragedy of the human condition when we choose not to respect and get along with each other. I also cry every time I hear it.
I can't listen to this great piece without being moved to tears. My family has been in VA. since 1633 and we've seen every war. This music reminds me of home everytime I hear it. A piece that will last forever!
Standing in the graveyard of MT moriah....at the foot of my grandmother's grave nestled among many of my ancestors overlooking the family homestead and the Shanadoah....yes I know the feeling...
This song reminds me of walking down a lane of willow trees toward a SC plantation home. I hear the elegance, serenity and gentility of the South. Most beautiful song I've ever heard, especially with a piano, six-string guitar and violin.
To Major John Perkins, this is the best version of this incredible piece of music and you played it at my fathers funeral. It was so fitting as he was a violin maker.
Dear Mrs. Hilleary Brown. Thank you for sharing the sweet sadness of the loss of your boys, and the way they were honored by their friends and fellow mucicians. Reading your story has certainly brought me to tears, and I may cry when I hear it, and play it going forward. As the Apostle Paul said, "We do not grieve as those who have no hope." I hope and pray that God has made a place for your brave boys of brightness, and verger, where sickness and suffering are no more. I am comforted that someday you will be reunited with them again. God bless, an amateur fiddle player from 5 miles west of Kenly, NC.
Such beautiful music which reminds me of very happy days spent walking along the gentle glens on the Mar Lodge estate in Scotland, with clear mountain steams and ancient Scots pines and a profound sense of peacefulness and beauty. Thank you for putting this superb music online.
"The Civil War was fought in ten thousand places; from Valverde, New Mexico and Tullahoma, Tennessee, to St. Albans in Vermont, and Fernandina, on the Florida coast. More than three million Americans fought in it, and over six hundred thousand men, two percent of the population, died in it." - Ken Burns' The Civil War
❤️THIS IS SO GORGEOUS❤️. and in it i hear some of the clear, beautiful notes, but much different tempo, of the Irish folk song “ The Wild Mountain Thyme “ I love both songs-both are so achingly, deeply moving. Try them both in succession if you think you can hear them without tears rolling down your face. ❤️
I was lucky enough to be in the audience when Major John Perkins and the Royal Marine Band, Plymouth ,gave their first public performance of this music, at a concert in HMS Raleigh, Torpoint, Cormwall
Well Done ! One of my favorites. -------------------------------- The end is near and how bittersweet it feels. The cold winds will once again arrive on on the echo of Autumn. Until we meet again, I bid thee farewell
the coda is actually irish rose of tralee there are bits of maids of arrochar and there is at least one more in there which i cannot remember the name lidten to the dark island lovats lament and lochanside--pref on the warpipes regards Chas
It makes me think of my third great uncle's death as a confederate soldier. Nothing can bring these brave men back, but they live on through this soulful rendition.
I'm playing a similar version of this song for my grade 6 trinity guildhall violin exam next year so it's great to be able to hear how other people interpret the music
A piece of music that has haunted me since I first it in the Ken Burns documentary 'Civil War'. I was surprised to discover that it was not music from the period but was written by Jay Ungar in 1982 as his farewell to a fiddler's gathering held near Ashokan reservoir in New York state (about 90miles north of New York) and close to Woodstock.This music, for me at least, will always stimulate thoughts and visions of the Civil War battles and the terrible suffering.of those times.
I can't hear this without seeing, in my mind's eye, the faces of the long dead Civil War soldiers presented in Ken Burns' riveting documentary. It makes me want to watch it all over again. The tragedy of war must never be forgotten.
A lump in my throat and tears in my eyes hearing this again after several years. So many memories of so many friends, some of them now no longer with us. Thank you so much
Beautiful and moving, if harrowing, tune especially in Ken Burn's Civil War. I have always felt the Sullivan Ballou letter to his wife one of the most romantic, if tragic, letters I have ever read or heard.
Without a doubt, this is the most beautiful music to ever have graced my ears. We have watched the Ken Burns series so many many times. We can almost repeat it word for word. But every time we watch we learn something. Some small some big.. a new understanding ..another light bulb turns on. Sometimes I wonder if those of us so clearly drawn to this part of history were not there in another life time. ...🇺🇸n
When my neighbor - (she was like a grandmother to my kids) passed away, my son ( who was 18 years old) was asked to play a piece of his own choice at the funeral. He played Ashokan Farewell solo on his violin for his grandmother & to this day I am amazed at his choice. Perfect for the occasion . It became one of my fav. I told my kids they can play Ashokan Farewell & Amazing Grace at my funeral.
I played this over & over as I toured Vicksburg last summer. Made the whole experience even more emotional. RIP to all the men and women who sacrificed so that this Nation shall not perish from the earth.
Fantastic solo performance. A classic piece of composition by Jay Ungar. With the trends in music the last 50 years, never thought we'd be blessed with such.
As i listen this, I can't help but remember the after-battle scenes of Mathew Brady. I can almost hear the the screams of pain as so many wounded and dying are strewed across the ground. Their pants are found unbuttoned, as they try in vane to reach and ease their wretched suffering. Some as young as high-school boys, moaning and crying with the intense burning pain of being "gut-shot." Begging for their sweetheart's, or mother's tender caress and soft kiss to help sooth their pain and fear of dying alone. Some come to realize only the inevitable cold kiss of death will stop their suffering, as the darkness of coming night-fall foreshadows the greater darkness ahead. I acknowledge this is a ugly scene, but THIS is the ultimate effect of a war you can still feel, nearly 160 years later. "Lest we forget."
In the winter of 1984 my two sons had stopped to help a woman who's car was stuck in the snow, part on and part off the road. They got behind the car and pushed. A truck coming down the same road never saw them or the car and hit them, the woman was critical, but the boys were killed.
The boys loved music and played in the high school band, there music director had heard this song played at the annual Ashokan fiddle Dance Camp, He then suggested this might be appropriate to be played at the boys funeral, in our living room we heard this song played for the first time.
On the day of the funeral orchestra members from high schools from all over Montana came to play the Ashokan Farewell,
Perhaps you cry as I do when I hear this tune, but it is the music like this and others that bind us together.
So as I am listening to this music perhaps you are as well, and the miles vanish and time has no meaning, and for a few moments we are kinsmen, brought together by our love of music.
Hilleary Brown z
God bless ya Hilleary .
I weep for your loss ! how sad !!!!!
Hilleary Brown I got halfway through your post before I could not see through my tears. I humbly ask you accept my most sincere condolences for your tragic loss. Beyond this, I don't have words.
So sorry to hear of your tragic loss. Music is one of the great consolations in life. Bless you.
I selected this to be played at my wife's funeral last July, a week after her 90th birthday. She now rests in the Dallas National Cemetery where I will go when it's my time.
God bless you and your wife.
Sorry for your loss, my prayers (for what they are worth) are with you and the rest of your family.
Sorry for your loss. Thanks for your service
God Bless You, Jim. The Lord will hold us all!
God bless you, and God rest the soul of your wife, sir….
My maternal Great-Great Grandfather fought at the Battle of Little Round Top at Gettysburg - He survived....so I could write this: This is one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written.
No don't.
My Great Great grandfather on my Father's side was going to the Battle of Gettysburg but was shot and injured before the actual battle so he was honorable discharged and sent home.
Great to know one's history.
My great great great grandfather, Pleasant Harte Wilson, fought for the Union at the Battle of Atlanta. He wouldn't talk about it. When I read up about the battle, I saw why
A great great Uncle on my mothers side, John Robert Langston, Confederate 5th North Carolina iInfantry was killed at the battle of Williamsburg. I too can relate to thus beautiful song.
"Sarah!! do not mourn me dead, but think I am only gone and wait for me for we shall meet again." Who can ever forget that letter being read in Ken Burn's film as this is played!!
Just reading it brings me to tears. There are moments that surpass all others.
Jeff Hietala Sulivan Buloue was killed a week later at the 1st Battle of Bull Run.
"never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battle field, it will whisper your name."
The education system in the mid 19th century may have lacked the latest technological gadgets, but they definitely knew how to teach people the English language and how to compose it. To read this most eloquent letter by Union Army Major Jeff Sullivan Ballou, go to www.pbs.org/kenburns/civil-war/war/historical-documents/sullivan-ballou-letter/
Major Ballou died in the first battle of Bull Run in 1861 at the young age of 32. His wife, Sarah Sullivan Ballou, died 55 years later in 1917. She never remarried. How could she after reading her husband's last words of love for her. You can find out more about the Ballou's and see photos of them and their adjacent graves at www.findagrave.com/memorial/8219968/sarah-hart-ballou
Fohpono, wow!
This melody is so timeless, it's staggering it was only composed in the 1980s.
I played this for my mother's funeral in2002 on my violin with our folk band. Hearing it again makes me cry, thank you to Jay Ungar.xx
When I learned that The Ashokan Farewell was "new" and not a civil war era classic, I was stunned. It is as timeless as it hauntingly beautiful. One time through and the listener knows it will far far outlive Unger and us all.
I too was amazed that this was new music but it is timeless.
Same here....this is new music? I've always had a strong feeling that somewhere during the civil war, this music was heard, it's timeless.
'The Ashhokan Farewll' is a piece that symbolizes America in one of her most darkest of hours. May all those whom paid in blood durning The Civil War rest in peace...
If you do not like this hauntingly beautiful melody you are missing one of the great sensations of life.
I first heard this hauntingly beautiful melody many years ago when the Ken Burns Civil War series originally aired on TV. It brought me to tears as I listened to it back then.
Three odd years ago, when I undertook the difficult task of choosing the funeral music for my terminally ill father's wake, I decided to include Ashokan Farewell in my selections. When it played there was hardly a dry eye at that funeral home.
There is not a dry eye now as I write this while listening to it once again.
Rest in peace dad.
It brought me to tears then and still does all these many years later particularly when coupled with Sullivan Ballou's beautiful letter to his wife.
This is the third touching story about Ashokan Farewell being used in a funeral. I believe Jay Ungar has hit a big spot in people's hearts. Thank You.
I pressed the dislike symbol by mistake and I apologise for that. In fact I have absolutely love this tune since I first heard in the 90s with the series the American Civil War.
It still does evoke tears... Certainly one of the MOST beautiful pieces of music ever written.
This particular rendition is played by the band of the British Royal Marines.
The soloist is Major J.R.Perkins.
It's also very popular on this side of the pond.
I think it's played more often as a tribute to the fallen in all wars.
It's sad refrain makes it very fitting for that purpose.
Americana flowing back.
The BRM French Horn section in this performance is outstanding, as are all others, but being a horn player myself, I notice them more.
A time when one of England's young lions was very sick.
@@FranklinPUroda ❤
. This goes deep into my soul~ my son plays the fiddle, I am thankful for having had this in my life
I know it may not have any significance to the meaning of the song but please listen. A few years ago, talking to my 80-something year old Grandmother, she told me of how beautiful she found this song and how much she loved it. Played it for her from yt. My grandmother past away just over a year ago. We played this song at her month remembrance service. Just as the shivers went down my back and tears came to my eyes that day, its been the same way listening to this song ever since. RIP x
This is not a piece to analyse or judge. Just lie back and let this beautiful sound wash over you. Such bliss!
This was my Grandad's favourite Piece, I'm
Only 15 and when I discovered that I was playing this with my orchestra I was overjoyed, it always took me back to when he was alive and he asked me to play it at his funeral, so I did for him, thank you for putting this piece up, much appreciated
This was a favourite piece for George. A man I have known all 52 years of my life along with his lovely wife. I called him Uncle George, even though we weren't related. He died 13/12/18 aged 88 and this music was played today at the funeral service in the church of a small village in the countryside in Scotland.
For now listening to this, I cry, but soon it will evoke fond memories and I will smile.
God bless you George
This violin has a superior sound with excellent clarity.
It reminds me always now of the Civil War. All who fought and all who died. It will forever touch my heart and soul. Someone once told me that all I did was cry when the series was on and yes that I did. How could you not crying all those men dead before their time. If the Civil war had no other effect on America than the gaping holes in the lives of families and communities and the hearts and souls of all Americans we were changed forever. It is a most beautiful piece of music.
William Ressegue Beautifully put. One cannot listen to this music without feeling rueful and near tears.
Ellen Hilts-Gossett I can
Kevin Huang Then why not go away quietly and don't waste your breath and our time by answering??
Ellen Hilts-Gossett Really. Some people are asshats.
Colleen H Aptly put, Colleen!
Hits me in the chest...every time..right from the moment I heard it..I felt like falling on my knees and weeping
+catherine martina Glad I'm not the only one.
+iliketrains most everyone does! see my comment above
Praise Heaven we don't live in Syria 2016. Talk about suffering. Our civil war was a picnic compared to what the people stuck there live with.
This was the first waltz at our wedding. Apart from being beautifully simple it reminds me (if it was needed) of how much I love my wife the the mother of my children.
This was my dad's choice of song at his funeral. Not a dry eye.
It was my grandma’s song that we figured as a family, Bc she had it as one of her favorite songs.
My mum’s too - a splendid version x
This was played at my Mum's funeral, such a lovely farewell to a great woman.
This is a beatiful song, I dont think any individual could say that this song represents anything other than the 'pain, sorrows, and rewards of 'liberty'. Liberty is often diluted by insincerity; this song feels true in my opinion.
Having heard him speak, I doubt Liberty was on Ungar's mind. As I recall, he said he was feeling melancholy at the end of his fiddle camp one year and started playing his fiddle and this is what came out.
Always brings tears when I hear Ashokan Farewell, stunning piece of music, well done Mr Unger
The atmosphere at Appomattox on the afternoon of April 9, 165 as the soldiers laid their guns down and began to go home.
This always brings me to tears, especially when I think of Sullivan Ballou's letter in Ken Burns The Civil War. Anyone who would give this a thumbs down has no heart or soul.
There are 37 people who have no heart or soul.😜
DrewtheFarmer That is truly hard to believe. . .
Greg Zulak me too, loved it, im from Scotland and visited U.S.A in 1992 and tored the battlefields, bull run etc. loved it, best holiday of my life.
DrewtheFarmer there are millions who have!!!!
myra allan I've driven past Gettysburg twice in the past year but had no time to stop. I sincerely regret that, but I will go someday! And when I do, "Ashokan Farewell" will probably be playing in the back of my head.
How anyone could give this a thumbs down is just beyond understanding..........how empty their lives and hearts must be
yes, they are called teenagers.
Off with their thumbs 🤠
Gorgeous rendition of one of the most beautiful melodies ever written.
And yet we still war with each other. There are just different names on each side, if only we could each listen to the beautiful haunting melody of Ashokan Farewell and tender our hearts toward each other.
I have loved this plaintive tune since I first heard it.This is a beautiful rendition.
One day I began watching the whole Ken Burns series about the American civil war and quite naturally got hooked on this enchanted and rather sad theme song. Obviously it took me a while to plough through the series, but every night after seeing an episode I would fall asleep playing Ashokan Farewell in my head. Being a part time musician I decided to learn it on my instrument and today it's part of my repertoire. It's a classic and I never tire listening or playing it.
This is one of the most soul evoking music I have ever heard and stirs the sadness of the most tragic of all conflicts when father fights son and brother fight brother! We as a species never learns and yet are hearts are stirred to create the most moving of music.
T Green Well said, T Green, well said. Amen.
As did I
I had a violin trio play this when I buried my husband in March 2014 in Gettysburg Pennsylvania. Perfect and it was beautiful. Brings tears to my eyes today.
My beautiful son plays this for me and I cry every time.
Beautiful. My late father loved this piece and every time I hear it I think of him.
I always think of the men that gave their lives for our country during the Civil War. Rest in peace all of the young men that passed so tragically.
***** Yes, the southern men so cruelly used for the whims of the elite and their stubborn generals (albiet genius).
***** Least the worst ones. And this is a Union (North) song...
***** Still reminding me of the North. And I heard of this song is written in 1982. But still kinda a Civil War song. And the Confederates were the worst. They want to keep a unnecessary society.
***** Yes, but give the patriot his due; it's associated with the series "The Civil War." A Ken Burns production, it was wonderfully balanced so that any reasonable person could understand the sadness involved on both sides, north and south. It made the English Civil War of roundheads vs. royals look like a skirmish!
Ellen Hilts-Gossett Have you even see the miniseries? What was this song like in that series? Was it played at the titles or something?
I just got a companion for my parakeet, and it didn't go so smoothly. She's very over-stimulated, and was chasing and pecking at the new bird. I wanted to try a little music experiment with her, and came across this song. I don't know what everyone is referring to about war or a documentary, so I didn't have any emotional bias. It is very soothing and beautiful, even without the history of it. My two birds, and surprisingly, my pug, were all calmed down and asleep within 2-3 minutes. It's refreshing to have "real" music back in the house. It will be a new habit, I'm sure.
+artalli This was used as the theme song in a documentary about the U.S. Civil war, so those who have seen it are reminded of the production.
This speaks to the deep sorrow of my soul, as a 67yo never married bachelor, with heart broken countless times.
This piece was played at my one of my best friends funerals, brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it :/
I love this music, and yes it makes me cry. The years vanish and I go back to when my young son was with us, I found this music by accident and we played it as they carried my son into church for his funeral . Even though it makes me cry , it is a beautiful piece of music. Miss you son xx
val, my profound condolences on your loss. I hope you have found a sense of peace. sanjosemike
I think if this song doesn't touch your heart then you're dead inside. I cry when I hear this theme in the civil war documentaries and think of all the young soldiers who died. The thing is, it actually sounds like a civil war era song.
Jay Ungar gave us a great gift with this song. If you like this check out "Lover's Waltz", also one of his compositions.
Correct, this is a piece by Jay Unger ... Ken Burns loved it and felt the way it so appropriately fit the themes of his wonderful documentary of the Civil War tragedy..
I am tired and sick of war. Its glory is all moonshine. It is only those who have neither fired a shot nor heard the shrieks and groans of the wounded who cry aloud for blood, for vengeance, for desolation. War is hell. -William T. Sherman
Drakthorias Cheers to your message and that of W.T. Sherman!
I swear I think William T Sherman was sick in the head. How could anyone in the right mind do the horrible things he did to the south
william l Eh? He was a great general, not the Mongol horde or Adolf Hitler. He knew exactly what he had to do and did it in quite a humane way. If you want to find out about horrible things done in unconscionable fashion during the Civil War look into the prison Andersonville in Georgia. Try the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by McKinley Kantor.
He was trying to show people the horror of war to make them so sick of it that they'd fight to put an end to it as quickly as possible.
Maybe it was all those horrible things that the south was doing...
If this doesn't tear you up. You don't have a soul
This was my wife's favorite piece she had it serenade us at our favorite restaurant.
I'm only 14 years old and I don't live in the US. I generally likes to study history so I decided to watch the Ken Burns series, and I can't believe I cried when it talked about the Emancipation Proclamation and when they first played the full piece.
The war is a sad chapter, but the Emancipation Proclamation and Reconstruction destroyed the nation even more.
Shove your right-wing Christy fundamental b*shit where the sun don't shine.This site is about a beautiful piece of music, and a horrible war. Go peddle your papers somewhere else.
孙明亮 dont believe all you hear about the emancipation proclamation, it only freed slaves supposedly in the southern states, what about the slaves in the north.
I am glad you are interested in our history and our terrible civil war. Yes, it is normal to cry because of this song, and the context in which it is heard.This shows that you are a sensitive soul, one capable of feeling and experiencing. Please work hard not to lose this, we need more like you. Go in Peace and do good my friend!
What a genuinely stupid thing to say. If you're not willing to wear chains yourself, don't force them on others.
For years I portrayed Gen.Robert E.Lee for the American Civil War Association...at the end of each dance this haunting melody was played and I danced with my daughter Rachel... now at 71 I find myself reminiscing about the events and how much I loved this tune and being able to dance with her to it's beautiful strains! She's now married and a Mom of a georgeous little girl...I'm hoping that I'll live long enough to dance to the tune with her as I did with her Mother!
I am a living historian and musician for this period, and I would gladly play this for you and your granddaughter to dance to! I get asked for it all the time, still decades after the Ken Burns series made it famous. It never loses it's beauty. :)
this version is incredibly beautiful. thanks for sharing!
I feel it is the soul connection. Old souls understand what this piece of music, art ...means.
Probably the greatest tune to symbolize the American Civil War of ALL times! As a member of the ACWA(American Civil War Association) I portrayed Gen.Robert E.Lee...at my final event this tune was played and I danced with my 17 year old daughter...for the last time! She's now 33 and has 2 children of her own...but I still cry thinking of those halcyon days and thank the Almighty the joy they brought to my family!
one of the most beautiful songs i've heard in a long time.
I have always loved this piece. I too want it played at my funeral when it is my time to go. I want it played as my family and friends pass by me for the last time.
I never get tired of this version.
I had bunked off school and was watching the series Civil War by Ken Burns, it would be years before I would see the series again. Ashokan Farewell stuck with me from those early years and I am as moved now as I was then by this haunting tune. As I recall the images of that most carefully compiled series I am moved in a way that only the birth and accomplishments of my daughter can match.
Simply beautiful, transcendent, and deeply moving. Thank you for sharing.
I cannot put into words how magnificent this music is. Gods must have composed this music
No, it was Jay Ungar a Jewish-American folk musician /composer from the Bronx, NY. It was composed in the style of a "Scottish lament". Its called making "art". People can do this....
Only just found this piece of music and I am so glad i have, one of the most emotional pieces of music i have ever heard, just beautiful.
It makes me cry to think about all the people who suffered, were injured, and died in this war.
+BroadcastDr We lost about 620 thousand. And at the same time, the Taiping Rebellion was ending in China.
Almost 30 million died.
Ours was and is a vicious species.
+wholeNwon
Our war: 4 years
Their war: 14 years
Our war: One nation fighting itself
Their war: Fighting themselves along with the British and French (two global, imperialist powers might I add) joining in.
The war of upstate new York? where this was written in the 80s? 1980s that is.
Incredible music and I learned to play it from the Civil War series - the letter to Sarah - oh what tears - going through Antietam battle field, bloody lane - after more than 100 years - the sadness and feelings at that time prevail in present day. Even though this piece is not old, it typifies the era. Hauntingly beautiful.
Barbara
Memories we never lived
I live in a Country School built in 1864 I, think about the Civil War a lot as I look around the school were i live, this song brings a tier to my eyes thinking about President Lincolns death and I think about the children who learned about his murder in this building. We must learn from our past. RIP President Lincoln
Beautiful , sublime , inspiring & just absolutely gorgeous music --Thanks for posting it here
This is one of the most beautiful, most spiritual tunes ever written. It so evokes the tragedy of the human condition when we choose not to respect and get along with each other. I also cry every time I hear it.
I can't listen to this great piece without being moved to tears. My family has been in VA. since 1633 and we've seen every war. This music reminds me of home everytime I hear it. A piece that will last forever!
Standing in the graveyard of MT moriah....at the foot of my grandmother's grave nestled among many of my ancestors overlooking the family homestead and the Shanadoah....yes I know the feeling...
Tears in my eyes. How lovely, and sad.
I heard this for the first time today. One of the most beautiful compositions I've ever heard.
This song reminds me of walking down a lane of willow trees toward a SC plantation home. I hear the elegance, serenity and gentility of the South. Most beautiful song I've ever heard, especially with a piano, six-string guitar and violin.
I learned to play this after years of constantly playing it, and such a beautiful, beautiful piece. I tear up whenever I play it
To all the men north and south that made the ultimate sacrifice thank you for fighting for what you believed in may you forever rest in piece
An absolutely beautiful version.
Proof, if any is needed, that a piece of music alone can evoke extreme emotions.
To Major John Perkins, this is the best version of this incredible piece of music and you played it at my fathers funeral. It was so fitting as he was a violin maker.
Dear Mrs. Hilleary Brown. Thank you for sharing the sweet sadness of the loss of your boys, and the way they were honored by their friends and fellow mucicians. Reading your story has certainly brought me to tears, and I may cry when I hear it, and play it going forward. As the Apostle Paul said, "We do not grieve as those who have no hope." I hope and pray that God has made a place for your brave boys of brightness, and verger, where sickness and suffering are no more. I am comforted that someday you will be reunited with them again. God bless, an amateur fiddle player from 5 miles west of Kenly, NC.
Such beautiful music which reminds me of very happy days spent walking along the gentle glens on the Mar Lodge estate in Scotland, with clear mountain steams and ancient Scots pines and a profound sense of peacefulness and beauty. Thank you for putting this superb music online.
"The Civil War was fought in ten thousand places; from Valverde, New Mexico and Tullahoma, Tennessee, to St. Albans in Vermont, and Fernandina, on the Florida coast. More than three million Americans fought in it, and over six hundred thousand men, two percent of the population, died in it." - Ken Burns' The Civil War
I don't think there's any Civil War battles in Vermont.
***** There was a small Confederate cavalry raid.
+BmorePatriot
probably right.......
+BmorePatriot as +Ben said there was a confederate Calvary raid there. They got in from Canada
+ForeverAnalog there was a confederate Calvary raid there
First time hearing this. Absolutely beautiful ❤️.
I listen to this over & over. So beautiful
This is to be played at my funeral, so beautiful
❤️THIS IS SO GORGEOUS❤️. and in it i hear some of the clear, beautiful notes, but much different tempo, of the Irish folk song “ The Wild Mountain Thyme “ I love both songs-both are so achingly, deeply moving. Try them both in succession if you think you can hear them without tears rolling down your face. ❤️
This is such a beautiful version. Thank you for sharing.
I was lucky enough to be in the audience when Major John Perkins and the Royal Marine Band, Plymouth ,gave their first public performance of this music, at a concert in HMS Raleigh, Torpoint, Cormwall
Well Done !
One of my favorites.
--------------------------------
The end is near and how bittersweet it feels.
The cold winds will once again arrive on on the echo of Autumn.
Until we meet again, I bid thee farewell
as a Scotsman i can tell the tunes Jay had in his head when he wrote it---but still brings the tears!
Hi Chas, can you name some of those Scottish tunes? I want to see if I can find some more music like this.
the coda is actually irish rose of tralee there are bits of maids of arrochar and there is at least one more in there which i cannot remember the name lidten to the dark island lovats lament and lochanside--pref on the warpipes regards Chas
You're right as rain.
cheeers keep the faith
This is technically a slow Waltz, but there are definitely elements of Scottlish laments in there.
Thanks for Posting this song! What a wonderful tune. One of my favorites.
It makes me think of my third great uncle's death as a confederate soldier. Nothing can bring these brave men back, but they live on through this soulful rendition.
Absolutely stunning. Love it and you for posting it.
Melancholy and heartrending tune - gosh, I feel so sad !!!!! music of a bygone era !!!!!
I'm playing a similar version of this song for my grade 6 trinity guildhall violin exam next year so it's great to be able to hear how other people interpret the music
I would love to hear this sad lament played on bagpipes. It would make a fitting farewell tribute, played by a lone piper.
A piece of music that has haunted me since I first it in the Ken Burns documentary 'Civil War'. I was surprised to discover that it was not music from the period but was written by Jay Ungar in 1982 as his farewell to a fiddler's gathering held near Ashokan reservoir in New York state (about 90miles north of New York) and close to Woodstock.This music, for me at least, will always stimulate thoughts and visions of the Civil War battles and the terrible suffering.of those times.
A beautifully hauntingly composition.We played this at my mother's funeral way back in September of 1996.
I can't hear this without seeing, in my mind's eye, the faces of the long dead Civil War soldiers presented in Ken Burns' riveting documentary. It makes me want to watch it all over again. The tragedy of war must never be forgotten.
A lump in my throat and tears in my eyes hearing this again after several years. So many memories of so many friends, some of them now no longer with us. Thank you so much
Beautiful and moving, if harrowing, tune especially in Ken Burn's Civil War. I have always felt the Sullivan Ballou letter to his wife one of the most romantic, if tragic, letters I have ever read or heard.
So beautiful ...I listened to it for the first time on the Radio, today.
Got to listen to this piece live... You can't even imagine! It's so beautiful!
Without a doubt, this is the most beautiful music to ever have graced my ears. We have watched the Ken Burns series so many many times. We can almost repeat it word for word. But every time we watch we learn something. Some small some big.. a new understanding ..another light bulb turns on. Sometimes I wonder if those of us so clearly drawn to this part of history were not there in another life time. ...🇺🇸n
When my neighbor - (she was like a grandmother to my kids) passed away, my son ( who was 18 years old) was asked to play a piece of his own choice at the funeral. He played Ashokan Farewell solo on his violin for his grandmother & to this day I am amazed at his choice. Perfect for the occasion . It became one of my fav. I told my kids they can play Ashokan Farewell & Amazing Grace at my funeral.
I played this over & over as I toured Vicksburg last summer. Made the whole experience even more emotional. RIP to all the men and women who sacrificed so that this Nation shall not perish from the earth.
This song makes me tear up every time. That's how beautiful it is.
Absolutely gorgeous piece of music, Bravo !
Fantastic solo performance. A classic piece of composition by Jay Ungar. With the trends in music the last 50 years, never thought we'd be blessed with such.
As i listen this, I can't help but remember the after-battle scenes of Mathew Brady. I can almost hear the the screams of pain as so many wounded and dying are strewed across the ground. Their pants are found unbuttoned, as they try in vane to reach and ease their wretched suffering. Some as young as high-school boys, moaning and crying with the intense burning pain of being "gut-shot." Begging for their sweetheart's, or mother's tender caress and soft kiss to help sooth their pain and fear of dying alone. Some come to realize only the inevitable cold kiss of death will stop their suffering, as the darkness of coming night-fall foreshadows the greater darkness ahead. I acknowledge this is a ugly scene, but THIS is the ultimate effect of a war you can still feel, nearly 160 years later. "Lest we forget."
performed by major JR Perkins and the band of HM Royal Marines, the best version of this lovely piece of music.
A beautiful, moving, and touching rendition of Ashokan Farewell. Thank you for sharing.