The Best of Cumbrian Folk Music

Cumbria has a wide variety of folk music traditions which have been passed down through the generations. This blog aims to showcase the best of these traditions.

The origins of Cumbrian folk music

Cumbrian folk music is the traditional music of the English county of Cumbria. It is characterized by its own distinctive tunes and lyrics, and has been influenced by the music of Ireland, Scotland, and other parts of England. The most popular instruments used in Cumbrian folk music are the fiddle, accordion, and melodeon.

The origins of Cumbrian folk music can be traced back to the Celtic Britons who inhabited the region prior to the Roman conquest in 43 AD. These people were known to play a type of harp known as the clàrsach, which was later replaced by the Celtic lever harp during the Middle Ages. The first record of folk music in Cumbria comes from 12th century poet William Lambarde, who wrote about a group of minstrels called the Kendal Waits. During the 14th century, many Scots migrated to Cumbria to work in the region’s woolen mills and mines, bringing with them their own musical traditions.

As Cumbrian folk music evolved over time, it began to incorporate elements of both Scottish and Irish traditional music. In the 19th century, American spirituals and hymns also became popular among Cumbrian musicians. This musical fusion resulted in the creation of new instruments such as the slide guitar and bass drum, as well as new genres such as country-folk and skiffle.

Today, Cumbrian folk music is enjoyed by both locals and visitors to the region alike. If you’re keen to enjoy some traditional tunes during your stay in Cumbria, be sure to check out one of the many folklore festivals that take place throughout the year!

The development of Cumbrian folk music

Cumbrian folk music has its roots in the music of the region’s early settlers, who came from across the British Isles and Europe. The different cultures they brought with them created a rich musical tradition that has been passed down through the generations.

There are many different styles of Cumbrian folk music, from the fast-paced dances of the Lake District to the slower, more reflective tunes of the North Pennines. The region is also home to a number of unique musical instruments, including the Cumbrian bagpipes and the Northumbrian smallpipes.

Today, Cumbrian folk music is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and there are many opportunities to hear it played live. The annual Hawkshead Music Festival is one of the largest folk festivals in England, and there are also regular sessions at pubs and clubs across the region.

The influence of Cumbrian folk music on other genres

Cumbrian folk music has had a significant influence on the development of other genres, particularly country and western music. Cumbrian musicians such as J. P. Hartley and Norman Riley have been credited with helping to develop the distinctive sound of country music, and Cumbrian folk songs have been recorded by a number of well-known country artists, including Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, and Johnny Cash.

The popularity of Cumbrian folk music

Cumbrian folk music has been gaining in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to the work of a number of talented musicians who have been championing the genre.

One of the most popular Cumbrian folk bands is The Corncrake, whose energetic live performances and catchy songs have won them a wide following. Another popular band is The Lakeland Lads, who specialise in traditional Cumbrian music and dance.

Cumbrian folk music is also gaining traction outside of the region, with a number of festivals and events now being held across the country. This increased visibility has helped to raise awareness of the genre and broaden its appeal.

The future of Cumbrian folk music

The future of Cumbrian folk music is in good hands. There are many young people who have taken up the tradition and are keeping the music alive. The music is changing, too, as the old songs are adapted to modern times. But the heart of the music remains the same: it is the story of the people of Cumbria, told in song.