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"Songs of Travel" is a song cycle composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams between 1901 and 1904. The cycle consists of nine songs, each setting a poem by the 19th-century Scottish poet Robert Louis Stevenson. The first song in the cycle is titled "The Vagabond," and it serves as an introduction to the journey depicted in the entire cycle. Here are some interesting facts about this particular song:

1. Composition Period:

   • Ralph Vaughan Williams began composing "Songs of Travel" in 1901, and the process continued until 1904. The songs were revised later, and the final version was published in 1905.

2. Text by Robert Louis Stevenson:

   • The text of "The Vagabond" and the entire song cycle is based on poems by Robert Louis Stevenson. The choice of Stevenson's poetry reflects Vaughan Williams' interest in English literature and folk traditions.

3. The Vagabond (I. The Vagabond):

   • "The Vagabond" sets the tone for the entire song cycle, introducing themes of travel, freedom, and the transient nature of life. The lyrics depict the life of a wanderer who finds joy in the journey and rejects the constraints of a settled life.

4. Melodic and Harmonic Characteristics:

   • Vaughan Williams' music in "The Vagabond" is characterized by its melodic richness and harmonic language. The composer was known for his exploration of modal scales and folk-inspired melodies, and these elements are evident in this song.

5. Voice and Piano:

   • "Songs of Travel" is scored for voice and piano, showcasing Vaughan Williams' skill in both vocal and instrumental writing. The piano part is an integral aspect of the cycle, complementing and enhancing the expressive qualities of the vocal line.

6. Connection to English Folk Song Tradition:

   • Vaughan Williams was deeply influenced by the English folk song tradition, and this influence is apparent in "The Vagabond" and throughout the entire song cycle. The composer sought to incorporate elements of English folk music into his compositions, contributing to the distinctive character of his work.

7. Popular and Enduring Work:

   • "Songs of Travel" has remained one of Vaughan Williams' most popular and enduring compositions. Its evocative settings of Stevenson's poetry and the exploration of themes such as travel and introspection continue to captivate audiences and performers alike.