Vive Henri Iv, Air Cherie De Francais Vol3

These variations on Vive Henri IV appear at the end of the Grande Méthode Complette, Op. 46 by the Italian guitarist/violinist Francesco Molino (1775-1847). As one of the major guitar personalities in Paris during the 1820s-30s, Molino, known as François among the French, would certainly make use of popular melodies such as Vive Henri IV, a song that dates back to the reign of King Henri IV (1553-1610). The song, passed from generation to generation, was incorporated into plays and operas, harmonized by composers, and acquired many variant lyrics. Perhaps one reason the song remained for so long in the collective memory of the French, were the original lyrics that start with the words “J’aimons les filles Et j’aimons le bon vin!” The song was spontaneously adopted as a quasi-official national anthem during the Bourbon Restoration. As presented at the culmination of a major didactical work, the Molino theme and 8 variations on Vive Henri IV, manifest itself as an excellent bridge between the class room and the concert stage.