Full Description
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.
Contents
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.
