Verse 3
As written, the notations of verse 3 show only one upper bass note at the end of each
bar of the musical section. Bunting's scribbles could be interpreted as simply lacking
notation of the usual lower (and upper) bass notes, meaning that verse three could
originally have been played as per example four with staccato.
The ultimate support for the bass dropping out for the first three beats of the each bar
in verse 3 is the notation in MS12 f33r, where this is exactly what happens. Four
notational features mark this verse as being different.
Bunting tells us that two fingered staccato was part of Hampsey's great 'range of
execution'. I find the technique very appropriate for parts of Scott's Lamentation. As
Burns' March is a learner's piece, it would make sense for the bass to drop out in
verse three if it would permit the pupil to focus on sounding a clean two fingered
staccato on the repeated notes.
My own fingering for this involves the first finger and thumb. When the notes are long
enough in duration, I strike both notes of the pair with the first finger and stop each
immediately with the thumb. When the notes are very short, it is unnecessary to damp
the first note as the next finger does this when preparing to play the second note; so I
strike the first note of the pair with the first finger, the second note with the thumb and
then stop the string with the first finger.
On p31, Bunting's divides the musical material into two bars, a device unique for
the verses on that page.
On the same page, Bunting is careful in all other verses to notate both lower and
higher bass notes and he may have had a reason not do so in the third verse.
The MS12 f33r notation is unique in clearly showing the treble being struck on
the downbeat and not after it. The bass notes are normally struck on the down
beat in the verses. Taking them out of the arrangement in verse three continues
the aesthetic of alternating between treble and bass notes in the verses instead
of striking them simultaneously.
Verse three is the only section of Hampsey's treble which is notated as
containing repeated staccato pitches.
Burns' March
Verse three