Based on a 12^th century Irish text, ‘The Blackbird’ is an allegorical poem describing the sorrow and suffering felt after the evictions of many of the Irish people from their homes at that time. The music is profound and poignant, stirring emotions with vivid harmonies and beautiful melodic phrases. Two soprano soli gradually join in providing extra musical and emotional content over the choral parts. The mood changes at the end of this special work, with a show of strength and hope from the tutti ensemble. A must-have for all mixed choirs.