This famous Shaker “quick dance” has many names includingTis a Gift to be Simple, Simple Gifts, and Lord of the Dance.Aaron Copland included the melody in his ballet, Appalachian Spring(1944). Arrangements of Simple Gifts has been sung at three US PresidentialInaugurations (1985, 1993 and 2009).



The Multi-level pieces were initially arranged in an AVersion. When that was completed, it was then simplified to form the BVersion. The B Version has thinner linesand allows more time for placing the fingers. The purpose is to permit harpistsof various playing levels to enjoy performing together.

In the key of D, the melody is divided evenly between parts. There are nopedal or lever changes. Dynamics are clearly marked. Shaker songs were quite sungoften in rounds.

You will receive the Score, Harp I, andHarp II.