During the Civil War era, the song "Follow the Drinking Gourd" was shared among slaves as a means to facilitate their escape to the North. The text of the song contained hidden messages about how the slaves could find their freedom. The Drinking Gourd represented the Big Dipper, which pointed them to the next step of their journey- ultimately leading to the Underground Railroad. This arrangement requires minimal shifting for the first violin, cello and bass, while the second violin and viola remain in first position throughout. Varying rhythms, bowings and articulations are featured components in this energetic adaptation of an African-American folk song.

Performed by the Alfred Studio Orchestra
Stephen Squires, Conductor