Erie Canal Songs

Description

Construction of the Erie Canal was proposed in 1807 and completed in 1825. It was the greatest American engineering and construction project ever attempted. The canal created a navigable waterway connecting the Great Lakes to New York City on the Atlantic Ocean. It has been enlarged three times to accommodate larger vessels.
Multiple factors-developed railways, and the completion of the St. Lawrence Seaway which allowed very large ships to sail direct from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic-have turned the Erie Canal into a largely recreational waterway today.

In its day, the canal had a huge effect on the economy of the region. It also became a favorite part of American folklore. The people who lived and worked on the canal shared stories and songs which were passed down through generations.

This piece for string orchestra presents three of these songs in a straight-forward manner. The first two were most likely tavern songs, and tell of legendary people and events through their many verses. The third song is certainly the most familiar, having been sung by generations of school children during the 20th century.

Erie Canal Songs gives students the opportunity to develop a variety of song and dance styles, and provides exposure for each of the instruments. It’s fun to play and can be a springboard to learning about American social history through its music.

Published by: String Instrument Specialists