Bonaparte's Retreat

March · 4/4 · D major

Bonaparte's Retreat is a traditional American and Irish fiddle tune of uncertain historical origins that is frequently structured as a slow march in four-four time and D major. The tune is characterized by its steady, plodding rhythm and haunting drone-like qualities that evoke the trudging movement of an army. It is widely preserved in the Appalachian fiddle repertoire and was notably collected and adapted by American composer Aaron Copland for his ballet Rodeo.

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