Track 6 of the album Keep the Porch Light On · 2023
Teacher at the Back Door, Singing Low
by Nina Vale
“Mister Hale kept the music room open after dark, and that's why I sing. I kept my voice low out of respect.”
soul · tender soul · gospel soul · 3:36
Lyrics
Mister Hale kept the music room Door unlocked after the gloom Every child with nowhere to go Found a seat and a warm hello Teacher at the back door, singing low Taught me to hold a note and let it go You said your voice is a gift to share Sing it out, I'll be right there Teacher at the back door, singing low Now I sing it so the whole world knows I was shy, I hid my face He said every voice has its place Played a chord on the old piano Said just follow, and I did Teacher at the back door, singing low Taught me to hold a note and let it go You said your voice is a gift to share Sing it out, I'll be right there Teacher at the back door, singing low Now I sing it so the whole world knows Years have passed, I stand on stages Lights are bright, I sing for ages But in the dark behind the curtain I still hear you, soft and certain If you're listening, Mister Hale Your song is carried on the gale Every note I sing tonight Is the one you taught me right Teacher at the back door, singing low Taught me to hold a note and let it go You said your voice is a gift to share Sing it out, I'll be right there Teacher at the back door, singing low Now I sing it so the whole world knows Singing low Singing low