English Folk-Song and Dance

Originally published in 1915, this volume provides a concise introduction to English folk songs and folk dances.

Frank Kidson (Author), Mary Neal (Author)

9781107698253, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 12 January 2012

202 pages
20.3 x 12.7 x 1.2 cm, 0.23 kg

Frank Kidson (1855–1926) and Mary Neal (1860–1944) were both notable for their involvement in the development of a scholarly movement relating to English folk traditions, Neal was also a prominent social campaigner and suffragette. Originally published in 1915, this volume provides a concise introduction to English folk songs and folk dances. The text is divided in two parts, with the first, written by Kidson, being assigned to songs and the second, written by Neal, being assigned to dances. This is a beautifully presented book, containing illustrations and numerous musical scores, that will be of value to anyone with an interest in folk traditions.

English Folk-Song: Introduction
1. Definition
2. The origin of folk-song
3. The cante-fable
4. The construction of folk-music
5. Changes that occur in folk-music
6. The quality of folk-song, and its diffusion
7. The movement for collecting English folk-song
8. The noting of folk-music
9. The different classes of folk-song
10. The narrative ballad
11. Love songs and mystic songs
12. The pastoral
13. Drinking songs and humorous songs
14. Highwayman and poacher songs
15. Soldier songs
16. Sea songs
17. Pressgang songs
18. Hunting and sporting songs
19. Songs of labour
20. Traditional carols
21. Children's singing-games
22. The ballad sheet and song garland
Bibliography
English Folk-Dance: Introduction
1. The morris dance to-day
2. Tunes
3. Musical instruments
4. The dress
5. Extra characters
6. The sword dance
7. The furry dance
8. The country dance
9. The present-day revival of the folk-dance
10. Conclusions
Bibliography.

Subject Areas: Music [AV]