Mezzo-soprano, flute, electric guitar, and cello. 3 1/2 mins.
Selection from Sauntering Songs: a concert-length cantata on the theme of walking, commissioned by Skylark Vocal Ensemble.
Lyrics by Nell Shaw Cohen.
Perusal Score
Performance score available for purchase. Please direct inquiries to Nell Shaw Cohen at nell@nellshawcohen.com.
Program Note
Having spent decades as a wife and mother, a woman redefines herself by thru-hiking a long distance trail alone.
“Just Because” is a selection from Sauntering Songs: a concert-length cantata on the theme of walking, commissioned by Skylark Vocal Ensemble. The life of Emma Gatewood, who in 1955 became the first solo female thru-hiker of the Appalachian Trail at the age of 67, (very) loosely inspired my lyrics.
This song is dedicated to those who venture down new paths late in life.
Performance History
Visit the Sauntering Songs page for performance history.