Sheet Music: The Stool of Repentance

TitleThe Stool of Repentance
Alternate titlesWright's Rant
ComposerTraditional Scottish
InstrumentationFlute solo
KeyA major
RangeA4–A5
Time signature6/8
Tempo108 BPM
Performance time0:35
Difficulty leveleasy
Download printable scorePDF Sheet Music (46 kB) (preview)
Download audio tracksMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (303 kB)
Date added2016-03-01
Last updated2016-03-01
Download popularity index☆☆☆☆☆ 0.3 (not so popular)
Categories
Celtic Music, Jigs, Traditional/Folk

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Tuesday 1 March 2016

Tune of the Day: The Stool of Repentance

Traditional Scottish tune

This Scottish jig has not only survived but has remained popular for nearly three centuries. An early version of the melody can be found in the William Dixon manuscript dated 1734. Printed versions from the 18th century often give the tune as “Wright's Rant”. It was included in a number of 20th-century collections, and is still very popular, especially with contra-dancers.

The title comes from Scottish Church history and has to do with the survival of an old Roman Catholic tradition. In the late 18th century, transgressors were often given the penance in church of sitting for one or two weeks before the entire congregation on the “stool of repentance”. This was a special seat dedicated for the purpose and was set up before the pulpit. In some congregations the penitent had to stand on the stool after the service was over to receive the minister's rebuke.

Thanks to Ronald for suggesting this tune!