Words by John Cashion
Composed by John Cashion
Accompanied by drum, triangle and tambourine, as well as piano, "If I Were" by John Cashion is a tuneful delight. There are frequent shifts from major to minor, and the accompaniment underscores the brilliant text. John's poetic gifts come to full flower in this Christmas setting:
"If I were the keeper of a crowded inn…"
"If I were a shepherd would I be amazed…"
"If I were a trav'ler, stopping for the night…"
"If I were a wise man riding from afar…"
Then, John Cashion turns these thematic ideas around with the children singing:
"I am not a shepherd, never saw a King; I am not a trav'ler in a crowded inn. I am just a child who knows the story well; I will be a shepherd, I will go and tell."
The extremely witty text with equally balanced melodic line makes this piece delightful—the tune and accompaniment echo these wonderful lyrics—it will be an instant hit with children's choirs.
Scored for Unison children with divisi on the last phrase, the keyboard accompaniment with percussion enables the piece to come to life. On the few higher passages, ensure that the children use their 'head voice' completely—don't let the children sing heavily, rather let their lighter voices lilt the tune throughout.
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