Music has the power to transport us across time and space, connecting us deeply with the emotions and experiences of others. One poignant example is the tender Scottish tune “Ae Fond Kiss,” originally composed by the iconic Robert Burns and now available in sheet music as a solo piano arrangement by Arthur Dobrucki.
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Robert Burns – Scotland’s National Poet
Known as Scotland’s national poet, Burns has an enduring legacy that spans centuries and is celebrated for his contributions to Scottish literature and folk music. His works often reflect themes of love, friendship, and the human condition, resonating deeply across generations.
Ae Fond Kiss – Music by Robert Burns
‘Ae Fond Kiss’ is a standout among Burns’ works. Composed in 1791, it was a heartfelt farewell to Agnes McLehose, a woman with whom Burns had a significant correspondence. The lyrics, filled with profound sorrow and longing, are a touching testament to the pain of separation. The melody accompanying these heartfelt words only amplifies the emotional weight of the farewell, etching ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ into the hearts of all who hear it.
Original Lyric to Ae Fond Kiss
Ae fond kiss, and then we sever
Ae fareweel, and then forever
Deep in heart-wrung tears I’ll pledge thee
Warring sighs and groans I’ll wage thee
Who shall say that Fortune grieves him
While the star of hope she leaves him?
e, nae cheerfu twinkle lights me
Dark despair around benights me
I’ll ne’er blame my partial fancy
Naething could resist my Nancy
But to see her was to love her
Love but her, and love for ever
Had we never loved sae kindly
Had we never loved sae blindly
Never met, or never parted
We had ne’er been broken-hearted
Fare-thee-weel, thou first and fairest
Fare-thee-weel, thou best and dearest
Thine be ilka joy and treasure
Peace, enjoyment, love and pleasure
Ae fond kiss, and then we sever
Ae fareweel, alas, forever
Deep in heart-wrung tears I’ll pledge thee
Warring sighs and groans I’ll wage thee
New Piano Arrangement of Ae Fond Kiss
One night, I improvised on this Scottish love song on my piano. I captured the performance on my iPhone camera and posted it on YouTube.
Today, a transcription of my improvised arrangement of this classic melody is available in sheet music for solo piano. I hope my reimagination of the Robert Burns’ song offers fresh life into the Scottish tune.
Aimed at intermediate to advanced pianists, my new version retains the original’s emotional depth while introducing harmonies and melodic enhancements to engage modern players.
Ae Fond Kiss – YouTube Video
If you’d like to hear my improvisation on Ae Fond Kiss, click the link below. You’ll hear a blend of the traditional melody in a contemporary arrangement.
Purchase Ae Fond Kiss Sheet Music for Piano
For pianists inspired to bring this arrangement into their repertoire, sheet music is available for purchase. This score is an excellent opportunity for musicians to connect with a piece of history and enhance their skills with a composition that bridges the gap between classical and contemporary piano playing. Get your sheet music here.
My arrangement of “Ae Fond Kiss” invites you to explore the depths of emotion that music can evoke. It’s a journey through history via a beautiful Scottish melody. Whether you’re a dedicated pianist or a lover of evocative music, I hope this arrangement touches your heart.
Arthur Dobrucki
#aefondkiss #robertburns
Immerse Yourself in More Poems and Songs by Robert Burns
The Complete Poems and Songs of Robert Burns
More Sheet Music by Arthur Dobrucki
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