Holy Friday

“Holy Friday”, by Sarah Houle, 2020, for Brass Quartet (Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba), Piccolo/Tin Whistle, Drums and Piano/Vocal/Chords.

Pastafarians regard Holy Friday as one of the most sacred days. Holy Friday occurs weekly and, though it may be celebrated at any time during the day, most often it is celebrated at a time called ‘happy hour’, which usually occurs at the end of the work day on Friday. Holy Friday is regaled because it often ushers in a few days of rest and relaxation for Pastafarians.

Partaking of the gift of drink is a typical way to celebrate on this sacred day, whether it be beer, wine, or rum, but really it can be anything that is considered good and delicious, even if it is non-alcoholic. The choice is left up to the preference of each individual.

This joyful and quietly energetic tune is also highly symbolic. There are three verses for the ‘three cheers’ or toasts that often occur while partaking of the gift of drink and there are a final ‘three cheers’ or toasts to end the piece. Interwoven within the texture of the music is the deep, pirate-y sound of drums, which build with exhuberance as time moves toward the day’s end on Holy Friday. Adding a bit of fancy fun, the piccolo or tin whistle sparkles with little interjections. The final, punctuated note that ends this piece is symbolic of the moment one punches out their time card at the end of the work day.

I hope you enjoy this joyful tune that celebrates Holy Friday!