Description

Ala Delona (or 'Ala Del'ona) is a traditional folk song from the Levant, encompassing Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. It refers to the spirit of everyone working together and contributing to a common good, such as during an olive harvest.

This song is popular within the Dabke repertoire, which is a traditional Levantine line dance known for its rhythmic clapping, footwork, and joyous, communal spirit. It is often accompanied by traditional instruments like the oud, mijwiz, tablah, daff, and arghul.

I was asked to arrange this song as part of a collection that is being published by Alison Matthews and Barbara Arens for young elementary pianists. This project aims to raise funds for Musicians Without Borders, a leader in using music for peacebuilding and social change, and PalMusicUK, which helps to nurture links between Palestinian and British musicians, building bridges, enriching lives and creating life-changing opportunities. All sales of this OllysPianoSheets sheet music will be donated to these causes.

Here are the translated lyrics to Ala Delona:

Fair Del’ona, fair Del’ona
My country’s olives are the tastiest,
My country’s olives and fresh almonds,
And sage tea and don’t forget thyme.

This arrangement will be perfect for beginner players at the grade 1 (ABRSM) standard and comes with two rhythmic backing tracks which capture the feel of the song as it would be traditionally performed. One backing is at the original 120bpm tempo, and the other is at a slower tempo of 90bpm for practice.

Once you have the notes securely under your fingers, be sure to include the dynamic markings which will add further character and expression to the piece. You'll also find a ritardando (gradually slowing down) to include during the final two bars.

Please note that in bars 15 and 21, there is a pause on the minim. When playing along with the backing track, hold this pause in tempo for an extra 4 beats before continuing.

With this piano sheet music PDF, you'll also receive a full performance recording, as well as the two play-along backing tracks, all in MP3 format.

I hope you enjoy playing Ala Delona, and thank you for supporting PALMusicUK and Musicians Without Borders by purchasing this sheet music.