Between the Lines: “I’m Homeward Bound” by Mary Donnelly and George L. O. Strid
January 10, 2023|
Alfred Music Official
I’m Homeward Bound
There's a place for this lyrical folk-inspired original on every program. It's a gentle ballad with traditional treble harmony, readable rhythms, and a tuneful melody sung in the most comfortable range. The optional flute part (available as a download) is as legato and flowing as the tender voices and arpeggiated piano. "Winding road, western wind, golden moon, silver stars . . . take me home."
Mary Donnelly
Mary Donnelly was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, with a double major in English and French. While still a college student, she helped organize two children's choruses and enjoyed it so much that she decided to go back to school and become certified in teaching music. Mary is currently retired, having taught general music and choir in elementary and middle school for thirty years in the Washoe County School District (Reno, Nevada). She is a member of ACDA, NEA, and ASCAP.
In 1985, Mary met George Strid while team-teaching a sixth-grade general music class. They have been working together ever since and have written over two hundred songs and twenty-five musicals.
Learn more about Mary and see a full list of her Alfred Music publications here .
George L. O. Strid
George L.O. Strid was born and raised in Oregon. He graduated from Oregon College of Education and then went on to obtain master’s degrees in composition and music education from Western Oregon State College. George is currently retired after teaching vocal music at the middle school level for 38 years. He is a member of ASCAP, ACDA, NEA, and MENC. George has been writing songs and musicals for over 30 years with his writing partner, Mary Donnelly.
Learn more about George and see a full list of his Alfred Music publications here .
What inspired you to compose I’m Homeward Bound?
The idea for the song I’m Homeward Bound came from the traditional Japanese song “Furusato.” We wanted to keep the sentiment of the words but with a Western melody.
Excerpt:
Once I've done what I set out to do
I'll return home one of these days
Where the mountains are green, my home town,
And the water is clear, my home town.
What teaching suggestions do you have to share for I’m Homeward Bound ?
When teaching the song, encourage students to take full breaths and not breathe in the middle of the phrase. Keep the lines smooth and legato. Following the dynamic markings of the piece will enhance the dramatic effect.
What message do you have for singers learning this piece?
Sopranos, work to support the tone on the high notes, for example, m. 34. Also, keep voices light and bright when singing “oo.” Altos, sing out when you get the melody on the refrain and on the second verse.