British folk revival
Introduction
The British folk revival refers to a series of movements that sought to rediscover and promote the traditional folk music of the British Isles. These movements have occurred at various times, with the most notable revivals taking place in the late 19th century and during the mid-20th century. The revivalists aimed to preserve the rich cultural heritage of traditional music and adapt it to contemporary contexts. This article explores the historical context, key figures, and lasting impact of these revivals.
Historical Context
Early Influences
The roots of the British folk revival can be traced back to the Romantic movement of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This period saw a burgeoning interest in the "folk" as a repository of authentic cultural expression. Figures such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge were instrumental in popularizing the notion that the rural populace held the keys to a purer form of art and culture. This interest laid the groundwork for later efforts to collect and preserve folk music.
The First Folk Revival
The first significant folk revival occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period was marked by the efforts of collectors and scholars who sought to document and preserve traditional songs and dances. Key figures included Cecil Sharp, who collected thousands of songs from rural England, and Francis James Child, whose compilation of English and Scottish ballads remains a seminal work in the field. This revival was influenced by a growing sense of nationalism and a desire to preserve cultural heritage in the face of industrialization and urbanization.
The Second Folk Revival
Post-War Context
The second British folk revival emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. This period was characterized by a renewed interest in folk music as a form of social and political expression. The revival was influenced by the broader counterculture movement and the civil rights struggles occurring in the United States. Folk music became a vehicle for expressing dissent and advocating for social change.
Key Figures and Movements
Prominent figures in the second revival included Ewan MacColl, who was instrumental in the creation of the Radio Ballads, and A.L. Lloyd, who played a significant role in the revival of sea shanties and industrial folk songs. The Topic Records label was pivotal in recording and disseminating folk music during this period. Folk clubs and festivals also became central to the movement, providing spaces for musicians and audiences to engage with traditional music.
Musical Characteristics
Instrumentation and Style
The British folk revival saw the use of traditional instruments such as the fiddle, accordion, and tin whistle. The revivalists often sought to maintain the authenticity of the music by using period-appropriate instruments and techniques. However, there was also a willingness to innovate and incorporate elements from other musical genres, leading to the development of folk rock.
Song Themes and Content
Traditional British folk songs often deal with themes of love, labor, and social justice. The revivalists were drawn to these themes and sought to highlight their relevance to contemporary issues. Songs about historical events, such as the Battle of Culloden or the Highland Clearances, were used to draw parallels with modern struggles.
Impact and Legacy
Cultural Influence
The British folk revival had a profound impact on the cultural landscape of the UK. It contributed to a renewed interest in traditional arts and crafts and influenced the development of other musical genres, such as progressive rock and world music. The revival also played a role in the establishment of cultural institutions, such as the English Folk Dance and Song Society.
Contemporary Folk Scene
The legacy of the British folk revival is evident in the vibrant contemporary folk scene. Artists such as Eliza Carthy and Seth Lakeman continue to draw on traditional influences while pushing the boundaries of the genre. Folk festivals, such as the Cambridge Folk Festival, remain popular, attracting audiences from around the world.
Conclusion
The British folk revival was a complex and multifaceted movement that sought to preserve and promote traditional music while adapting it to contemporary contexts. Its impact can be seen in the enduring popularity of folk music and its influence on other cultural forms. The revivalists' efforts to document and celebrate the rich musical heritage of the British Isles have ensured that these traditions continue to thrive.