Music by Mykola Leontovych
Arranged, with Lryics by Douglas E. Wagner
Presenting the Ukranian Bell Carol melody in its original form as The Little Swallow (Shchedryk), the text of Leontovych's work tells the fabled story of a lone swallow that flies down to homes, sending to all who live therein blessings, wealth, and abundant harvests in the coming year. The Ukrainian word 'shchedryk' refers to 'the bountiful (giving) one.' At just about two minutes in length, this is a perfect piece to focus on diction and breathing.