Sheet Music: So Long, Mother

TitleSo Long, Mother
ComposerEgbert Van Alstyne (1878–1951)
InstrumentationFlute and Piano
KeyE-flat major
RangeEb4–F5
Time signature2/4
Tempo100 BPM
Performance time1:50
Difficulty leveleasy
Download printable scorePDF Sheet Music (107 kB) (preview)
Download audio tracksMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (1.6 MB)
Play-along accompanimentMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (1.6 MB)
Date added2021-01-07
Last updated2021-01-07
Download popularity index☆☆☆☆☆ 0.6 (below average)
Categories
20th century, Marches

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Thursday 7 January 2021

Tune of the Day: So Long, Mother

by Egbert Van Alstyne, transcribed for flute and piano

Originally written for voice and piano, this World War I era song was released in 1917. It is one of the best-known compositions by Illinois-born pianist Egbert Van Alstyne, and was notably sung by the great Al Jolson.

The song is told from a soldier's point of view as he comforts his heavyhearted mother before he leaves for war.

So long my dear old lady, don't you cry
Just kiss your grown-up baby goodbye
Somewhere in France I'll be dreaming of you
You and your dear eyes of blue
Come let me see you smile before we part
I'll throw a kiss to cheer your dear old heart
Dry the tear in your eye
Don't you sigh, don't you cry
So long, mother, kiss your boy goodbye

Thanks to Sarah for suggesting this piece!