Cecil Sharp (1859–1924) was a prominent English folk song collector and musicologist known for his contributions to preserving and documenting traditional English folk music. "High Germany" is one of the many folk songs he collected, and it is particularly associated with the region of Somerset. Here are some interesting facts about Cecil Sharp and "High Germany":
Collector of Folk Songs: Cecil Sharp dedicated much of his life to collecting and preserving traditional folk songs. He traveled extensively throughout England, including Somerset, where he documented local tunes and lyrics.
High Germany: "High Germany" is a folk song that tells the story of a soldier going off to war. The song is characterized by its narrative style and vivid storytelling, reflecting the oral tradition of passing down tales through music.
Publication: Sharp included "High Germany" in his collection titled "Folk Songs from Somerset," which was published in 1904. This collection, along with others, played a crucial role in the folk music revival in England during the early 20th century.
Melody and Lyrics: The song has a poignant melody, and its lyrics provide insight into the experiences of soldiers and the impact of war. It became popular not only for its musical qualities but also for its historical and cultural significance.
Legacy: Cecil Sharp's work significantly influenced the folk music revival in England and beyond. His efforts helped bring attention to the rich heritage of traditional music, ensuring that these songs were not lost to time.
Founder of the English Folk Dance Society: In 1911, Sharp, along with others, founded the English Folk Dance Society (now part of the English Folk Dance and Song Society). The organization aimed to promote and preserve traditional English folk dances and songs.
Cecil Sharp's contributions have left a lasting impact on the appreciation and understanding of English folk music, including the timeless ballad "High Germany."