Discover the Joy of Medieval Folk Music

Discover the joy of medieval folk music by listening to these 10 tracks.

What is medieval folk music?

Medieval folk music is a type of music that was popular in medieval Europe. It is typically characterized by its use of simple, acoustic instruments and its focus on the common people rather than the nobility. This type of music was often sung in taverns and at festivals, and it often had a upbeat or humorous tone.

The history of medieval folk music

Medieval folk music was the music of the people of the Middle Ages. It was often passed down from generation to generation orally, and it usually consisted of simple melodies and lyrics. Although it was not highly respected by the upper classes, medieval folk music was an important part of the lives of ordinary people.

During the Middle Ages, music was an important part of both religious and secular life. The Church discouraged the use of instruments in worship, but they were popular at secular events such as feasts, markets, and fairs. Folk songs were often about love, religion, or current events. They were also used to teach children moral lessons.

Many modern folk songs can trace their origins back to medieval times. “Greensleeves” is one example of a medieval ballad that is still popular today. “Amazing Grace” is another well-known tune that has its roots in the Middle Ages.

If you’re interested in exploring the world of medieval folk music, there are a few things you can do. You can listen to recordings of medieval folk songs, read books about the history of folk music, or even attend a concert or festival featuring this type of music. Who knows? You might just discover the joy of medieval folk music for yourself!

The instruments used in medieval folk music

Today, many people enjoy listening to medieval folk music without really knowing anything about the instruments used to create this type of music. This guide will introduce you to the most common instruments used in medieval folk music so that you can appreciate this type of music even more.

The first instrument that comes to mind when thinking of medieval folk music is probably the lute. The lute is a stringed instrument that has been around since the Middle Ages. It is often used as an accompaniment to singing and can also be played solo. Lutes come in different sizes and shapes, and they are usually made of wood.

Another popular instrument during the medieval era was the hurdy-gurdy. The hurdy-gurdy is a stringed instrument that is played by cranking a handle that runs along the strings. This produces a continuous drone sound that can be quite hypnotic. Hurdy-gurdies were often used by traveling minstrels and were considered to be quite popular among the lower classes.

The bagpipe is another musical instrument that is associated with medieval folk music. Bagpipes are actually a type of wind instrument, and they are played by blowing air into a bag and then into one or more pipes. Bagpipes have been around for centuries, and they are still played in many parts of the world today.

These are just some of the more common instruments used in medieval folk music. There are many others, including drums, flutes, and cymbals. If you enjoy listening to this type of music, take some time to learn about the instruments used to create it!

The different styles of medieval folk music

There are many different styles of medieval folk music, from the upbeat and lively sounds of jigs and reels, to the more reflective and contemplative strains of ballads and laments. The key characteristic of medieval folk music is that it was created by the common people, for the common people, and was passed down from generation to generation by oral tradition.

Some of the most popular forms of medieval folk music include:

Jigs: A jig is a lively, fast-paced dance tune, usually in 6/8 or 12/8 time signature. Jigs were often played on the fiddle or accordion and were popular at festivals and ceilidhs (traditional Scottish/Irish gatherings).

Reels: A reel is a fast-paced dance tune in 4/4 time signature. Reels were often played on the fiddle or bagpipes, and were popular at balls, ceilidhs and other social gatherings.

Ballads: A ballad is a slow, reflective type of song that tells a story. Ballads were usually about love, loss or betrayal, and were often passed down from mother to daughter. Many ballads were written in 3/4 time signature, which gave them a distinctive “waltz-like” feel.

Laments: A lament is a slow, mournful type of song, often written in minor key. Laments were used to express grief or sorrow, and were often sung at funerals or other somber occasions.

The benefits of listening to medieval folk music

Listening to medieval folk music can have a number of benefits. It can help you relax, improve your mood, and increase your focus and concentration. Folk music from the medieval era often has a slower tempo and is more soothing than other genres of music. Studies have shown that listening to calming music can help reduce anxiety and stress. If you are looking for music to help you unwind after a long day, or to boost your mood, consider giving medieval folk music a try.

How to get started with medieval folk music

Medieval folk music sounds like something out of a fantasy novel, and in many ways, it is. This type of music was popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, which lasted from the 5th century to the 15th century. Today, modern audiences can still enjoy this unique form of expression.

If you’re interested in getting started with medieval folk music, there are a few things you should know. First, this type of music is often played on period instruments, such as lutes and harps. You might also hear flutes, drums, and other percussion instruments. In addition, many performers sing in Medieval languages, such as Latin or Old French.

Don’t let all of this discourage you! There are plenty of resources available to help you get started with medieval folk music. One great way to start is by listening to modern bands that play this type of music. Many of these bands use modern instruments, which makes the music more accessible to today’s audiences. You can also find recordings of medieval folk music online or at your local library.

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the genre, you might want to try attending a live performance. Many medieval festivals offer concerts featuring this type of music. If you can’t make it to a festival, there are often local bands that play medieval folk music at Renaissance fairs or other events.

Whatever your interest in medieval folk music may be, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this unique genre!

The best medieval folk music albums to listen to

When it comes to finding the best medieval folk music, there are many great albums to choose from. While the music from this era is often referred to as being dark and gloomy, there are actually a wide variety of styles and genres that fall under the umbrella of medieval folk music. From upbeat and cheerful tunes to haunting and mysterious ballads, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Some of the best medieval folk music albums include:

-The Lore of the Land: A Journey through England’s Folklore by Simon Care
-The Ballad of Childe Roland by Martin Simpson
-The English and Scottish Popular Ballads by Francis James Child
-The Celtic Harp by Anne Briggs
-The Peacock’s Tail by Gildas

The top medieval folk music festivals to attend

Although many people associate the Middle Ages with heavy metal and rock music, there was actually a thriving folk music scene during this time period. If you’re a fan of medieval folk music, there are several festivals around the world that you can attend to get your fix. Here are some of the top festivals to check out:

1. The L Folk Festival in France is held every year in the city of Lyon. This festival features a wide range of traditional and contemporary folk music from all over Europe.

2. The Celtic Colours International Festival takes place annually in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. This festival showcases the best traditional and contemporary Celtic music from all over the world.

3. The Cornish Celtic Music Festival is held every year in Cornwall, England. This festival features a mix of traditional and contemporary Celtic music from Cornwall and beyond.

4. The Scottish Traditional Music Festival is held every year in Edinburgh, Scotland. This festival celebrates all aspects of Scottish traditional music, from Highland bagpipes to Gaelic song.

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The best medieval folk music clubs and societies

The best medieval folk music clubs and societies are dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of this unique genre of music. If you love medieval folk music, then joining one of these organizations is a great way to meet like-minded people and get involved in the medieval folk music scene. Many of these clubs and societies also host events and festivals where you can enjoy medieval folk music in a fun and festive atmosphere. Here are some of the best medieval folk music clubs and societies from around the world:

The Ancient Music Society (AMS) is a UK-based organization that promotes the study and performance of ancient music. The AMS organizes regular events including concerts, lectures, workshops, and trips to archaeological sites. Membership is open to everyone with an interest in ancient music.

The New York Medieval Consortium (NYMC) is a group of medieval scholars, musicians, and enthusiasts who meet regularly to share their love of the Middle Ages. The NYMC organizes events such as concerts, lectures, workshops, film screenings, and social gatherings. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the Middle Ages.

The Early Music Society of Toronto (EMST) is a Canadian organization that promotes the study and performance of early music. The EMST hosts regular events such as concerts, lectures, workshops, and field trips. Membership is open to everyone with an interest in early music.

How to learn to play medieval folk music

Although it may seem daunting at first, learning to play medieval folk music can be great fun! There are a few things you’ll need to get started: a musical instrument, some sheet music, and a lot of patience.

To begin with, you’ll need to choose an instrument. The most popular choice is probably the violin, but other good options include the recorder or flute. If you’re not sure which instrument is right for you, why not try them all out and see which one you enjoy playing the most?

Next, you’ll need to find some sheet music. This can be tricky, as there isn’t a lot of medieval music available. However, there are a few websites that specialize in providing sheet music for this type of music. Once you’ve found some music that you like, take your time practicing and perfecting your technique.

Finally, remember to be patient! Learning to play any type of music takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if it takes you a while to get the hang of things – just keep at it and eventually you’ll be playing medieval folk music like a pro!