We have a collection of 7 arrangements for Jay Ungar - Ashokan Farewell
Did you know this piece gained fame as the theme for a documentary about the American Civil War? Learn!
"Ashokan Farewell" is a beautiful and poignant piece of music composed by Jay Ungar. Here are some interesting facts about Jay Ungar and the composition:
Background: Jay Ungar is an American folk musician and composer. He was born on November 14, 1946, in New York City.
Inspiration for "Ashokan Farewell": Jay Ungar composed "Ashokan Farewell" in 1982. The piece was written as a farewell tune to mark the end of the Ashokan Fiddle & Dance Camps, a series of music and dance camps that Jay and his wife, Molly Mason, organized in the Ashokan Reservoir area of upstate New York.
Recognition: "Ashokan Farewell" gained widespread recognition when it was used as the main theme for the acclaimed Ken Burns documentary series "The Civil War," which aired in 1990. The emotional resonance of the piece contributed significantly to the success of the series.
Awards: The soundtrack of "The Civil War," featuring "Ashokan Farewell," earned Jay Ungar a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 1993.
Versatility: While "Ashokan Farewell" is often associated with the American Civil War era, its timeless and emotive quality has led to its use in various contexts beyond the documentary. It has been arranged for different instruments and has been performed in genres ranging from classical to bluegrass.
Performing with Molly Mason: Jay Ungar frequently collaborates with his wife, Molly Mason, who is also a talented musician. Together, they have recorded and performed a wide range of folk and traditional music.
Legacy: "Ashokan Farewell" remains one of Jay Ungar's most enduring compositions, and its popularity endures, both as a standalone piece and as part of the soundtrack to "The Civil War." The tune continues to be cherished by musicians and listeners alike for its evocative and nostalgic qualities.