Amy Barlowe’s Fantasy on Hava Nagila has captured the joyful spirit of “Hava Nagila” in this dazzling arrangement for Two Violins! Opening with a sense of melancholy, virtuosity emerges anticipating an increase in momentum and energy. With the juxtaposition of growing excitement and short remembrances of its lamenting introduction, the Fantasy on Hava Nagila gradually builds in speed and intensity until it reaches a fiery climax uniting the sentimental opening with its dramatic and exuberant conclusion. Great fun to play on recitals, for duo contests, and at celebrations such as weddings! A proven audience pleaser, for sure!

Background

Stemming from a composition class assignment requesting the addition of words and rhythms to a 19th century Hassidic nigun (melody), “Hava Nagila (Let Us Rejoice)” was written in 1918 and is attributed to either Moshe Nathanson, or his professor at Hebrew University, A.Z. Idelsohn. The original song, often danced to at weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and other joyous occasions, was popularized by Harry Belafonte.

Click here to listen to a recording of Amy Barlowe and Alan Bodman performing Fantasy on Hava Nagila for Two Violins.