Love Me Tender was based on a tune written by George Poulton called Aura Lea which was first published as sheet music in 1861. Elvis's 'Love me Tender' used new lyrics by Ken Darby. The original are lovely too and are apt now for the coming of Spring. I made the Cello sheet music arrangement with a nod to both.
The first rendition of the melody is rich with double stops and the second time through has a slow swing feel. Not too difficult, but if double stops are tricky for you it is a great way to practice them, as it is easy to hear the harmonies.
When the blackbird in the Spring,
On the willow tree,
Sat and rocked,
I heard him sing,
Singing Aura Lea.
Aura Lea, Aura Lea,
Maid with golden hair;
Sunshine came along with thee,
And swallows in the air.
Chorus: Aura Lea, Aura Lea,
Maid with golden hair;
Sunshine came along with thee,
And swallows in the air.
2 Pages digital download pdf
