Auld Lang Syne
- Play the complete verse and contrasting chorus at one singing tempo
- Keep the dotted rhythms clear and sustain the long high notes for three beats
Composer: Scottish traditional; words by Robert Burns (1759–1796)
Notes Used: D4, E4, F#4, G4, A4, B4, D5, E5
Notes Used: G4, A4, B4, C5, D5, E5, G5, A5
Time Signature: 4/4 · Key: G Major
Time Signature: 4/4 · Key: C Major
Fingering Review
Full Song
Hadow’s historical reading, transposed from F to G, includes a passing note in the opening that differs from today’s usual version.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to min’?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days o’ lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.
Performance Goal: Play the verse and chorus in steady time, with full three-beat holds and a clearly shaped final cadence.