Category: Vocal Music / Art Song
Instrumentation: voice, piano
Text / Source: Poem by Nuala O'Connor
Recordings: Ask of Me What the Birds Sang

Tatú is a song for voice and piano setting a Gaelic poem by Nuala O'Connor. Within Solas agus scáth, it offers a concentrated poetic moment, shaped by the intimacy of a single voice and piano and by Baxter’s sensitivity to text, phrase, and expressive contour.

The song reflects Baxter’s gift for lyrical melody and careful text setting. Its musical character depends on clarity of diction, flexible vocal line, and an attentive partnership between singer and pianist, allowing the poem’s emotional and imagistic qualities to emerge naturally.

Tatú may be performed as part of the full cycle or as a standalone art song. It is well suited for vocal recitals, contemporary classical programs, and concerts highlighting Irish poetry, Gaelic language, and modern song repertoire.