Down That Old Road – Piano Collections

About “Down That Old Road”

Down that Old Road evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder, a journey into the heart of memories and experiences that have shaped our lives. This road, weathered by time and marked by the footprints of countless travellers, holds the stories of the past. It’s a road that leads not only to physical destinations but also to the corners of our souls, where forgotten dreams and cherished moments reside.

Walking down that old road is an invitation to reflect on the chapters of our lives that have brought us to this point. It’s a contemplative journey, where each step prompts introspection about the choices we’ve made, the lessons we’ve learned and the people who have walked alongside us. The scenery along this road might have changed, but the feelings it evokes remain timeless. It’s a journey of acknowledging our growth, embracing our past selves and appreciating the transformation that comes from navigating life’s twists and turns. Down that Old Road is a poignant reminder that even as we move forward, our history remains an integral part of who we are, guiding our steps as we continue to explore the uncharted territories that lie ahead.

The Music

Down That Old Road is a piece that I remember making a conscious decision to write in Db major. Mainly because I wanted to try composing/improvising something in the key but also for a challenge. I especially recall that I wanted to write 2 distinct parts to the song. The form of the song actually falls into an ABABA structure. It was important to me, at the time, to create a distinct sound between the two sections, but not change key or have anything drastic. The main difference between the A section to the B section is the pacing and melody.

ABABA form is a musical structure where the composition consists of multiple sections labelled A and B, such as in this song Down That Old Road. The form typically follows the pattern of A-B-A-B-A, with each section representing a distinct musical idea or theme. The A sections are usually identical or very similar to each other, while the B section provides a contrasting element or variation. This form is often used in popular music genres, such as folk, rock and pop, as it offers a balance between repetition and variation, creating a sense of familiarity and cohesion while still introducing new elements to maintain listener interest.

Adopting such a form allowed me as a composer to approach this song with a little more intention, as opposed to just improvising whatever came in the moment. From these choices in form and key, Down That Old Road was born.