We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Anonymous - Sumer is icumen in
What is the oldest surviving six-part polyphonic composition in Western music? Learn!
"Sumer is icumen in" is one of the oldest known rounds, a musical composition in which different voices sing the same melody but start at different times. Here are some interesting facts about this medieval English song:
Age and Origin: The song dates back to the 13th century and is found in the manuscript Harley 978, which is housed in the British Library. It's considered one of the oldest pieces of written music that has survived to the present day.
Manuscript Notation: The song is notable for being one of the earliest examples of music notation in the English language. It uses a combination of regular musical notation and a unique system of symbols to indicate rhythm.
Lyrics: The lyrics are in Middle English and celebrate the arrival of summer. The title "Sumer is icumen in" can be translated to "Summer has come in."
Musical Structure: It's a rota or round, designed to be sung by multiple voices. As one group finishes the first section, another group starts, creating a perpetual and overlapping structure.
Subject Matter: The lyrics describe the arrival of various natural elements associated with summer, such as singing birds, blooming flowers, and the return of the livestock to the fields.
Cultural Significance: "Sumer is icumen in" provides a glimpse into medieval English culture, offering insights into the musical and poetic preferences of the time.
Recordings: Over the years, the song has been recorded and performed by various artists, both in its original form and in modern adaptations. It remains a piece of historical significance in the realm of early Western music.