Down By The Riverside Bb Solo

Grade Level 3

Year: 2010

Type: Bb/C Solo

Composer: Nicholas Simmons-Smith

Program Notes:

“Down by the Riverside” is another fine example of the African-American spiritual. Borne out of the injustice of human slavery, the lyrics speak of struggle and hardship but also of hope. They were an attempt to encourage the workers to go to a place in their minds and hearts where they knew there was more to the world than hardships and suffering.

This solo captures the essence of freedom found in laying one’s burdens down. Such a feeling of relief and joy would have greatly encouraged the slave-worker and can also bring us great encouragement today.

“Give your burdens to the Lord, and He will take care of you.” Psalm 55:22 (New Living Translation)

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES)