The American composer, Edward MacDowell, composed a series of ten short pieces for solo piano, called Woodland Sketches, written in 1896 while staying at his summer residence in rural New Hampshire. He found much inspiration from the surrounding landscape and nature. The first piece, To A Wild Rose, reflected his love of roses and beauty. It has become one of his most famous compositions and a top favorite of pianists, especially since its short length and simplicity make it easier for those newer to piano to learn.
The first consideration when performing this piece is touch. A rose is a delicate flower, one that is handled carefully so that the petals don’t break. Are wild roses similar to garden roses? Are they sturdier, more resilient, tougher to the elements than a tenderly cared for garden rose? Or are they just as susceptible to wind, weather and force? Perhaps they are more likely to deter intruders with an armor of thorns, yet their petals are still thin and fragile.
When we think of a wild rose, what images come to mind? We regard roses as a thing of beauty, a symbol of love and celebration. We prize them for their attractiveness and associate them with sweet fragrance and warmer weather. Wild roses are less “tamed,” with untrimmed bushes, often intertwined with other wild foliage. When we spot a colorful flower among a mass of leaves, thorns and twigs, we become excited as if we have found a jewel among rocks. It not only attracts pollinators and other creatures, but our curiosity too. What does this particular rose smell like? Does it have a velvety smooth feel when touched? And we marvel at its openess and charm.
We are meant to play this piece with simple tenderness, taking our time to cultivate the gentle mood and feel of this work. Connecting the short melodic phrases with legato, using good fingering, and use of the pedal are important factors. Also, creating different shades of piano and pianissimo help bring out the various layers of tenderness. Let your fingers float dreamily between keys, maintaining connection within the phrases. Imagine each key is the soft, delicate petal of a rose, and enjoy the texture as you play. On a warm summer day, if you encountered a wild rose of exceptional beauty and fragrance, would you be in a hurry to pass it by, or would you take your time, appreciating its fleeting glory and fully engaging with it using all your senses?