Folk in Education

Our Subversive Voice is a database of English Protest Songs and the outcomes of a two-year long research project at the University of East Anglia. It includes lyrics, information about the songs, and, where available, links to recordings.

A wide variety of repertoire is available online, but good sources can be tricky to find — even if you know what you’re looking for. So we’re sharing some of our favourite websites, databases, and forums for sharing in a series of ‘Repertoire’ posts. Do you have a favourite that we’ve missed?

In 1905, a 48-year-old woman named Marjory Kennedy-Fraser arrived on the island of Eriskay with strange luggage.

Most visitors to the Scottish Hebrides brought supplies or fishing gear.

Marjory brought a heavy, fragile wax cylinder phonograph.

She was a singer from Perth, Scotland, born into a musical family in 1857.

But she wasn't there to perform for the locals.

She was there to save them from silence.

At the turn of the 20th century, the world was changing rapidly.

Industrialization was sweeping through the United Kingdom.

Young people were leaving the remote islands for the cities, and English was replacing Gaelic.

The old ways were dying out.

The oral traditions that had been passed down for centuries were on the brink of extinction.

Marjory realized that when an elder died, a library of music burned down with them.

So she took action.

She traveled across the rugged, windswept islands, dragging her recording equipment through rain and storms.

It was not easy work.

The locals were initially suspicious of the woman with the machine.

But Marjory sat with them by their peat fires.

She listened to their stories.

She recorded the songs of the waulking women as they worked the tweed.

She captured the rowing chants of the fishermen and the lullabies of the mothers.

Over vast years of travel, she collected hundreds upon hundreds of traditional Gaelic songs.

She took raw, unaccompanied melodies and transcribed them.

She arranged them for the piano and translated the lyrics so the wider world could understand them.

Her publication, "Songs of the Hebrides," became a sensation.

Some purists criticized her for adding piano accompaniment to simple folk tunes.

But without her intervention, many of these melodies would have vanished into the mist.

She preserved the culture.

She preserved the language.

She preserved the soul of the Highlands.

Because of her obsession, songs like "The Eriskay Love Lilt" became world-famous standards instead of forgotten whispers.

She was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree in 1928 for her efforts.

Marjory Kennedy-Fraser passed away in 1930, but her recordings ensure the ancestors never stop singing.

Sources: University of Edinburgh Library / National Library of Scotland

Last week, The Open University awarded Steve Roud the honorary degree of Doctor of the University in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the study of folk song and vernacular culture. Many congratulations Steve, this is so well deserved.

We now have six books of medieval music in modern notation available. Each has 12 pieces with translations and pronunciation guide (where needed), and with context and performance notes.

They are a mere £7 each from our Etsy page (+P&P).

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TrouvereMedieval?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

Each book focuses on a different aspect of the medieval repertoire and will serve as a great starting point for new players, but also offer extra depth and challenges for more advanced players. If you are a new player, I recommend starting with 'Gran Miragre' or with 'A Chantar'. For those with more experience seeking to hone their technique, 'Trecento' and 'Une Estampie Si Jolie' might be just the thing!

All pieces are given in their original keys and transcribed direct from medieval sources.

Kevin Burke. Baltimore Fiddle Fair 2022 Recorded Saturday 7th May. Three reels. First tune learned by Kevin from Rosaline, daughter of John Stenson. Followed by Stensons No. 1 and Stensons No. 2.

The history lesson you never knew you needed... Join Three Acres And A Cow for a performance on 5th February. Watch our online folk gigs from wherever you are in the world.

🎶📢 Reminder: Register Now for Spring Term Music Lessons! 📢🎶

Whether you're totally new to our music classes or continuing from the Autumn Term, now is the time to secure your spot for the Spring Term, starting this January. Don't delay - places are limited and fill up fast!

📅 Registration Deadline: by 5pm on Friday 10 January 2025

🎵 What We Offer:
Discover the joy of traditional Irish music and instruments through weekly lessons taught by expert tutors. We welcome all ages and skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned players!

🌟 We Teach:
Flute | Banjo | Fiddle | Bodhrán | Harp | Whistle | Mandolin | Concertina | Singing, and more!
Children aged 8+ are welcome, with classes for adults as well.

✨ Why Join?
For new students, it’s a great way to start your journey into the rich tradition of Irish music in a fun, welcoming environment.
For continuing students, Term 2 is your chance to deepen your skills and build on everything you’ve learned so far.

📅 Spring Term Details:
Registration Deadline: by 5pm on Friday 10 January 2025
Classes Begin: Mid January
📍 Where? The Irish Cultural Centre

Have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re happy to help! 📩

🎵 Register Now: irishculturalcentre.co.uk/education/music

Join our vibrant community and celebrate the joy of Irish music! Don’t wait—register now to avoid missing out. Places fill up fast! 🎻✨