A Folk Song A Day

Jon simply introduces this as, “A classic Sheffield carol.”  It’s the first of several tracks that are marked chorus on my planner and Jon introduces his cohorts as “Jess and Richard Arrowsmith plus Gavin Davenport from Crucible, Sam Sweeney and Fay Hield, with occasional, additional chorus vocals from Lucy Arrowsmith (aged 10 months.) These songs were recorded by Andy Bell at the Royal Hotel in Dungworth.” Those seeking a little more on this carol and what seems to be a well established tradition at the Royal might like to start here and here’s another link.

You can buy the December digital album now from all good download stores.

Jon says, “I learnt this from Tim hart and Maddy Prior. Of all the songs I know this one is always nearest to the surface – i.e. if I’m humming something absent-mindedly, nine times out of ten it’ll be Babes in the Wood.” This is a well known tale and has been adapted for fairy stories,  pantomime and even film. According to Wiki here, the first publication was in 1595, but it’s probably  older.  I’m intrigued by the idea that there is a truth at its heart, although even in more forested times it stretches credulity.  I guess it also depends on the age of said babes, however. There’s a bit more on the myth here, with the suggestion that the story has its origins in Norfolk and is based on local history. Appropriately Mainly Norfolk has  the songs recordings covered and there are some interesting notes form Shirley Collins, which make reference to this being collected by the Copper Family. You can link to their site here.

You can buy the December digital album now from all good download stores.