Old English Folk Music: What You Need to Know

Old English folk music is a genre that is often overlooked. However, it is a genre with a rich history and unique sound. If you are interested in learning more about old English folk music, then this blog post is for you. We will cover what you need to know about this genre, including its origins, key characteristics, and some of the most popular artists.

What is Old English Folk Music?

Old English folk music is a genre of music that developed in England over the course of many centuries. It is characterized by its use of traditional instruments, such as the fiddle, and its emphasis on vocal harmony. The music has its roots in the oral tradition of storytelling and has been passed down from generation to generation.

While the exact origins of Old English folk music are unknown, it is clear that the genre has been influenced by a variety of cultures and traditions. One of the most significant influences was the arrival of the Romani people in England during the 12th century. The Romani were a group of people who traveled across Europe, and their arrival in England brought with it a new style of music known as “Gypsy Jazz.”

Another significant influence on Old English folk music was the Industrial Revolution. This period saw a massive increase in urbanization, which led to a decline in traditional rural life. As a result, many people began to migrate from rural areas to cities in search of work. This migration led to a mixing of cultures and musical styles, which had a profound impact on the development of Old English folk music.

One of the most important figures in the history of Old English folk music is Vaughan Williams. Vaughan Williams was an English composer who did much to define and preserved the genre. He collected and transcribed hundreds of traditional songs, many of which were published in his seminal work, The Penguin Book of English Folk Songs (1958). Vaughan Williams’ work played a vital role in keeping Old English folk music alive during the 20th century.

Today, Old English folk music is enjoying something of a renaissance thanks to a new generation of musicians who are keeping the traditions alive. If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating genre of music, there are many resources available online and in print.

The Origins of Old English Folk Music

Most people associate folk music with rural England and the countryside. But the truth is, folk music has its origins in the cities and towns of England, as well as in the music of the working class. It wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that folk music began to take on a more rural flavor.

The Industrial Revolution brought about tremendous changes in England, both in terms of how people lived and worked, and in the social hierarchy. For the first time, there was a large group of people who were no longer tied to the land, and who had to find new ways to make a living. This led to a rise in poverty and crime, and to a general feeling of insecurity.

The Industrial Revolution also led to a decline in religious belief, as people began to question traditional authority figures such as the church. This led to a loss of faith in institutions, and to a new focus on personal relationships and community.

All of these factors contributed to the development of folk music. The rise of poverty and crime led to a need for entertainment that was both cheap and cheerful, and that could be enjoyed by everyone. The decline in religious beliefs led to a need for music that was more personal and more expressive of emotions. And the focus on community led to a need for music that could bring people together.

The Instruments Used in Old English Folk Music

There are a variety of instruments used in Old English folk music, each with their own unique sound.

The most common instrument is the fiddle, which is a stringed instrument that is played with a bow. It has a strong, high-pitched sound that often drives the rhythm of the music.

Other popular instruments include the accordion, which has a deep, rich sound; the concertina, which has a light and airy sound; and the melodeon, which is similar to an accordion but has a brighter sound.

There are also a number of different percussion instruments used in Old English folk music, including bodhrans (a type of drum), bones (played by shaking or tapping them together), spoons (played by tapping them on a hard surface), and tambourines (played by shaking or tapping them).

The Characteristics of Old English Folk Music

Old English folk music is a genre that is centuries old and has undergone many changes over the years. It is characterized by its use of traditional instruments, its focus on storytelling, and its often contagious melodies. If you’re looking to add some Old English flavor to your musical repertoire, here are a few things you should know about the genre.

One of the most defining characteristics of Old English folk music is its use of traditional instruments. Instruments like the fiddle, accordion, penny whistle, and bodhran are often used in Old English folk tunes. These instruments give the music its characteristic sound, which is often lively and upbeat.

Another distinctive element of Old English folk music is its focus on storytelling. Many Old English folk songs are ballads that tell stories of love, loss, and adventure. The tales told in these songs often have moral messages or teach lessons about life.

Old English folk music is also known for its catchy melodies. Many of the genre’s most popular tunes are those that are easy to sing along to and remembered long after they’ve been heard. The tunes are often passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that the music remains a part of England’s cultural heritage.

The Popularity of Old English Folk Music Today

Old English folk music is enjoying a resurgence in popularity today. This type of music was traditionally passed down from generation to generation, and was often used to tell stories or teach lessons. Today, people are rediscovering the beauty and simplicity of these old songs, and are using them to connect with their heritage.

There are a few key things that you need to know about Old English folk music in order to appreciate it fully. First, this music is brought to life through the use of traditional instruments like the fiddle, banjo, and accordion. Second, the lyrics of these songs are often very simple and direct, but they can also be quite poetic. Finally, Old English folk music is usually very upbeat and lively, making it the perfect way to get your toes tapping.

If you’re interested in learning more about Old English folk music, there are a few great resources that you can check out. The first is the website for the English Folk Dance and Song Society, which has a wealth of information about this type of music. Another great resource is the website for Folk Songs from England, which features a large collection of old songs that you can listen to or download.

Whether you’re interested in reconnecting with your roots or simply want to enjoy some beautiful music, Old English folk songs are sure to delight.