Jarba, Mare Jarba is a popular traditional Hungarian-Romani folk song. Its text speaks of the longing to return to one’s homeland.

Translation of Jarba, Mare Jarba:

Green grass, tall grass, I would like to go home,

but I cannot, because I have sworn not to.

Tall grass, green grass – oh, that I cannot go home!

My mother has left the village; she left the hut empty,

Adorned with leaves but full of poverty.

Tall grass, green grass – oh, that I cannot go home!

Tall grass, green grass – I would like to go home.

but I cannot, because I have sworn not to. - Stacy Garrop

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Chicago’s talented and beloved composer Stacy Garrop has arranged Jarba, Mare Jarba for String Trio and Saxophone Quartet to premiered at our March 12, 2025 "Letters from Home" concert!