Discover Medieval English Folk Music

Discover the joys of Medieval English folk music by exploring this blog, which is packed with information, resources, and recommendations.

What is Medieval English Folk Music?

Medieval English folk music is a vibrant and diverse genre that covers a wide range of styles and influences. From the earliest known examples of folk songs preserved in manuscripts, to the modern day revival of traditional English folk music, there is a rich history to explore.

The term ‘folk music’ can be used to refer to music that is passed down orally within a community, or music that has been composed by an individual but adopted by the community. In the medieval period, folk music was often passed down through oral tradition, and many of the earliest known examples of English folk songs are found in manuscripts dating from this time.

One of the most important medieval manuscripts containing English folk songs is the Winchester Troper, which dates from around 1200. This manuscript contains over one hundred songs, many of which are still sung today. Other important sources for medieval English folk songs include the Exeter Book and the Aelfric Manuscript.

Traditional English folk music has been revived in recent years by a new generation of performers. These artists often take inspiration from the original sources, but also add their own modern twist to create something truly unique. If you’re interested in exploring this genre further, why not check out some of the contemporary artists making Medieval English Folk Music today?

The Origins of Medieval English Folk Music

Medieval English folk music is the traditional music of England from the time of the Anglo-Saxons until the Middle Ages. The music was preserved and maintained by the English people, who were constantly exposed to it through their daily work and leisure activities. This exposure helped to ensure that the music was kept alive and passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest surviving examples of medieval English folk music date back to the 11th century. However, it is likely that the music dates back even further, to a time before the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons in England. This music would have been brought over from continental Europe by the Anglo-Saxons, and would have been influenced by the music of their homeland.

Over time, the music of England began to develop its own distinct identity. This can be seen in the lyrics, which often tell stories about English history or folklore. The melodies also became more intricate, making use of countermelodies and harmony. Instruments such as the lute and fiddle were introduced from Continental Europe, and these quickly became popular among English musicians.

As England entered into the Middle Ages, its folk music began to undergo some changes. The arrival of Christianity resulted in changes to some of the lyrics, which now often had religious themes. The introduction of new instruments, such as the pipe organ, also had an impact on English folk music. However, despite these changes, the core elements of medieval English folk music remained largely unchanged. This helped to ensure that it remained a vital part of English culture throughout this period.

The Instruments of Medieval English Folk Music

Several instruments were commonly used in Medieval English Folk music, including the fiddle, recorder, flute, bagpipe, shawm, and drums. The fiddle was the most popular stringed instrument of the medieval period and was used to play a wide variety of music, from dance tunes to love songs. The recorder, a type of flute, was also a popular choice for playing dance music and ballads. The bagpipe was commonly used to lead military marching bands, while shawms were often used to provide outdoor entertainment. Drums were usually only used for ceremonial purposes or in military contexts.

The Music of Medieval English Folk Music

Medieval English folk music is a genres of music that was popular during the medieval era. This type of music was often used for dancing and entertainment purposes. Some of the most popular instruments used in this type of music include the lute, fiddle, and recorder.

One of the most famous pieces of medieval English folk music is “Greensleeves.” This song was composed by an unknown artist and is thought to date back to the 16th century. “Greensleeves” is a slow and relaxing tune that has been covered by many artists over the years.

If you’re interested in learning more about medieval English folk music, there are several resources available online and in libraries. You can also find CDs and DVDs that feature this type of music.

The Legacy of Medieval English Folk Music

The legacy of medieval English folk music is still very much alive today. This type of music was the backbone of the medieval English culture and it is still a vital part of the modern English identity.

There are many different genres of medieval English folk music, but they all share a few common elements. First and foremost, medieval English folk music is rooted in the oral tradition. This means that the songs were passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth, rather than being written down.

Another key element of medieval English folk music is its use of simple, repetitive melodies. These melodies were easy to remember and sing, which made them perfect for singing along to while working or during other everyday activities.

Finally, medieval English folk music often tells stories or recounts historical events. These songs were a way for people to remember and share their history with each other. Many of these songs are still known and sung today.

If you’re interested in learning more about medieval English folk music, there are plenty of resources available. You can start by doing a quick internet search, or by checking out some of the books and articles listed below. You can also listen to recordings of medieval English folk music, which are widely available online and in record stores