Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes Piano
If you're a piano player looking for a beautiful and timeless piece to add to your repertoire, you might want to consider learning "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes." This piece is a traditional English love song that has been set to music by several composers. It's a great choice for romantic occasions like weddings or anniversaries, but it's also just a lovely piece to play for your own enjoyment.
History of "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes"
The lyrics of "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" are believed to have been written by the English poet Ben Jonson in the late 16th century. The song was originally a poem entitled "Song. To Celia" and was written as a tribute to a woman named Celia. The poem is a declaration of love in which the speaker tells Celia that he needs nothing more than the sight of her to feel fulfilled.
Over the centuries, the poem has been set to music by many composers. The most well-known musical setting was composed by the English composer Roger Quilter in the early 20th century. Quilter's version of "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" is a beautiful and romantic art song that has become a staple of classical vocal repertoire. However, the song can also be played as a solo piano piece, making it a great choice for pianists who want to play something that is both accessible and moving.
How to Play "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" on Piano
Like many traditional songs, "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" has a simple melody that is easy to learn. However, playing the song well requires a certain degree of musical sensitivity and finesse. The following steps will help you learn how to play "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" on piano:
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Melody
The first step in learning how to play "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" on piano is to become familiar with the melody. You can do this by listening to different recordings of the song or by playing through the sheet music. The melody is not difficult to pick up, but you'll want to take some time to make sure you're playing it with the appropriate phrasing and dynamics.
Step 2: Practice Playing with Feeling
Once you're comfortable with the melody, it's time to start thinking about how you want to interpret the piece. "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" is a romantic and sentimental song, so you'll want to play it with feeling. Experiment with different tempos and dynamics until you find a style that suits you.
Step 3: Use Pedal to Create a Smooth Sound
To create a smooth and flowing sound, be sure to use the pedal when playing "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes." The pedal will help to blend the notes together and create a sense of continuity throughout the piece. However, make sure you don't overuse the pedal, as this can make the sound muddy and unclear.
Step 4: Experiment with Variations
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different variations on the melody. Use the sheet music as a starting point, but feel free to add your own flourishes and embellishments to make the song your own. Remember, the goal is to create a beautiful and moving rendition of "Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" that speaks to your own personal musical style.
Conclusion
"Drink to Me Only With Thine Eyes" is a classic love song that has captivated audiences for centuries. Whether you're playing it as a solo piano piece or as part of a vocal arrangement, this timeless piece is sure to delight and move your listeners. With a little practice and experimentation, you can create a beautiful and expressive performance that truly captures the essence of this beloved English love song.
