Highguard music

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The Music of Highguard

Style summary

Highguard's music draws its inspiration from Western church choral music, plainsong and shapenote music (also known as Sacred Harp). Of these, the last probably best exemplifies the musical style - Highguard music is robust and enthusiastic, and accessible to all levels of talent. They enjoy rich harmonies and proudly devotional texts, although amongst themselves occasionally a wicked sense of humour emerges in some soldiers' songs, as well as some surprisingly tender lullabies.

Commonly known songs

Pick a few examples from the list below to specifically promote as well-known within that nation. Provide lyrics and score/chords. Preferably in a range of difficulties.

A musical tradition

The Highguard Battle Choirs are a great imperial tradition - no nation matches to battle with the same holy fervour in their singing. Usually accompanied by a single drumbeat, the sound of the Highguard army in full voice is an awe-inspiring and intimidating sound. Often a small number of more confident singers lead the chant in a call-and-response pattern. At least in this context the choirsters are warriors first and musicians second - the singers need not be particularly talented, as it is holy fervour and their indomitable will that characterises the battle choir.

Further examples

More examples for keen bards.

Songs

• Virtues Anthem
• The Navigators
• Hymn to Vigilance
• Naughty Pilgrim Song, an alternative to all the serious songs sung in Highguard!

Instrumentation

Highborn musical traditions favour the flute and other wind instruments. On days when the wind is high, a chapterhouse resounds with the song of wind chimes, aeolian harps and bells.

How to adapt your repertoire

Suggestions of how someone could talk an existing song and make it fit the nation's style.

Our sources

Credits, links to artists, further material etc.