We have a collection of 18 arrangements for Traditional English - Scarborough Fair
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"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is a famous song by the American folk duo Simon & Garfunkel. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the artists:
Traditional English Ballad: "Scarborough Fair" is based on a traditional English ballad that dates back to the 17th century. It's a song about a man who sets impossible tasks for his former lover to complete before he will take her back.
Collaborative Effort: The song is credited to Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, but it's important to note that it's primarily Paul Simon's composition. Art Garfunkel's contribution was the "Canticle" part, which was an anti-war poem he had written earlier. The two songs were merged to create the version we know today.
Instrumentation: The song features an intricate arrangement of acoustic guitars and vocals. It's known for its beautiful and haunting harmonies between Simon and Garfunkel, which were a hallmark of their style.
Symbolic Canticle: The "Canticle" part of the song is an anti-war message. It was added during a time when the Vietnam War was raging, and it served as a powerful protest against the war.
Album and Movie Soundtrack: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" was featured on Simon & Garfunkel's 1966 album "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme." The song also appeared in the soundtrack of the 1967 film "The Graduate," starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft. Its inclusion in the film helped propel its popularity.
Chart Success: The song was a commercial success for Simon & Garfunkel. It reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
Revival: The song experienced a resurgence in popularity in the 21st century. It was covered by various artists and used in various films, TV shows, and commercials, introducing it to a new generation of listeners.
Timeless Appeal: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" remains one of Simon & Garfunkel's most enduring and beloved songs. Its haunting melody and timeless lyrics continue to captivate audiences around the world.
Live Performances: Simon & Garfunkel performed "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" during their famous Central Park reunion concert in 1981, which attracted over 500,000 people. This concert was a historic event in their career.
Legacy: The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, showcasing its enduring appeal and influence on the folk and pop music genres.
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is not only a beautiful and iconic song but also a reflection of the social and cultural context of its time, making it a significant piece of musical history.