Midnight On The Water

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Notes

“Midnight on the Water” is a hauntingly beautiful, lonesome waltz that has become one of the most beloved pieces in the American “Old-Time” and Texas fiddle traditions. Composed in the early 20th century by Luke Thomasson (father of the legendary fiddler Benny Thomasson), it is often cited as the quintessential “Texas Waltz.”

While many traditional tunes are intended for high-energy dancing, “Midnight on the Water” feels more like a soliloquy. It is a cinematic melody that evokes a sense of stillness, moonlight, and the vast, open spaces of the West.

The Feel: It is incredibly “atmospheric.” The tune is characterized by a slow, stately $3/4$ pulse that allows for a great deal of rubato (flexibility in timing) and expressive, long-bow strokes.
The Key: Played in D Major. However, it is famous for its use of “Scordatura” or cross-tuning on the fiddle. Many players tune their fiddle to D-D-A-D (tuning the G string down to D). This creates a deep, resonant “cello-like” drone that rings through the entire tune.
The Structure:
- The A-Part: A low, growling melody that stays mostly on the D and A strings, establishing a mood of quiet contemplation.
- The B-Part: The melody leaps an octave higher, soaring with a series of gentle, descending triplets that feel like water rippling under the moon.