Let Go the Long White Sails

Let go the Long White Sails was first commissioned by the Darling Harbour Foreshore authority and Sydney Children’s Choir in 1999 for the finale of Sydney Australia Day and fireworks in Sydney Harbour. In 2004 Paul developed the piece further for the Song Cycle ‘Beyond the White Sails’, commissioned by Caulfield Grammar.fc82fbd06f18f211f062ce34752a3b59

Although it tells the story of migrant journeys to Australia in the 1800’s by tall ship, the song really captures the spirit of adventure, coming of age, taking risks and the journey to change. 

Paul has orchestrated the piece for many Australian events and it is often sung at awards ceremonies, graduations, weddings, funerals and anniversaries. It has been performed with symphony orchestras, bagpipes and drums and massed choirs.

Paul conducting the Geelong Summer Music Camp finale with massed choir, Bagpipes and symphony orchestra.

Sample recording courtesy of the NSW Education Department

Themes

Sing a choir favourite Sing a Finale Sing a global story Sing a Jarman classic Sing a message Sing from the heart Sing the adventure
Duration 3:50
Key Eb Major
Range Bb3 to Eb5
More info Also available with full symphony orchestra and bagpipes. Contact Paul directly for any parts
Price AU$3.00 per copy

Lyrics

L E T   G O   T H E   L O N G   W H I T E   S A I L S                

By Paul Jarman

Steady hold, ropes and shackles blowing
Feel the sun glowing 
And the sea spray washing over the bough
Steady hold, watch the dolphins frolic
See the eagle flying 
Over seas and golden skies

Steady hold, oil the decks, they’re burning
Block and tackle grinding
Free the main sail let the wind sway our course
Steady hold, though my heart is leaving
There’s a new life calling
Rise to the challenge of our journey

Let go the long white sails
Across the ocean to the far side of the world
Let go the long white sails
Far, far away to a place where dreams prevail

Fare thee well, oh fare thee well
This is our final goodbye
Fare thee well, oh fare thee well
Our future lies on a distant shores

Steady hold, climb the upper rigging
Comes a trade wind blowing
Down below the captain’s bell strikes a call
Say a prayer for the land we’re leaving
Far away they’re singing songs for the spirit of our journey

Let go the long white sails
Across the ocean to the far side of the world
Let go the long white sails
Far, far away to a place where dreams prevail

© Paul Jarman 2004