This Marriage

SATB
Solo Guitar

SATB

Note from Composer

The Text

May these vows and this marriage be blessed.
May it be sweet milk,
this marriage, like wine and halvah.
May this marriage offer fruit and shade
like the date palm.
May this marriage be full of laughter,
our every day a day in paradise.
May this marriage be a sign of compassion,
a seal of happiness here and hereafter.
May this marriage have a fair face and a good name,
an omen as welcomes the moon in a clear blue sky.
I am out of words to describe
how spirit mingles in this marriage.

Jalal al-Din Rumi, 1207-1273

Duration

3 minutes

Year of Composition

2004

Difficulty

Intermediate

Licensing

Boosey & Hawkes

Purchase

US: Hal Leonard
UK: Musicroom
World: Music Shop Europe
Digital: SheetMusicDirect

Solo Guitar

Note from Composer

“I was first introduced to Eric Whitacre’s music on my wedding day. As a surprise gift This Marriage was sung during the ceremony. I was immediately taken aback by the sheer beauty of sound that melded so flawlessly with the wonderful words of the poet Rumi. Sometime later I attempted a guitar transcription of This Marriage and was rather amazed that it was not only possible to play it verbatim, but that the music also maintained its integrity without the words. Having received an enthusiastic endorsement for the guitar arrangement from Eric, he suggested three other titles to transcribe: Goodnight Moon, The Seal Lullaby and Sing Gently. I am very proud to present these four arrangements which are a welcome addition to the guitar’s concert repertoire.” – Gerard Cousins

Duration

3 minutes

Year of Composition

2013

Licensing

Boosey & Hawkes

Purchase

Digital: Sheet Music Direct