Bonnie Lassie was composed on a commission for Dave Faber and The Woodlands Chorale in celebration of the ensemble’s 10th anniversary. The text is by the great Scottish poet Robert Burns, and depicts a young man’s desire for his lover to come away with him to the Birks of Aberfeldy. The location is set in central Scotland near Perth, where “crystal streamlets” and “braes” (hillsides) are forested with “birks” (birch trees). The singer entices his listener to come away, while powerful descriptions of the beautiful scenery aid in the allurement. The melodies and textures are newly composed to Burns’ words, mirroring the uplifting and vibrant energy of the poem. The piano and percussion lend extra sparkle to the busy vocal lines. Get lost on your trip through the Birks of Aberfeldy!