We have a collection of 18 arrangements for Traditional - Scarborough Fair (Arr. Charlotte Damocles)
What ancient English roots inspired the haunting melody of Scarborough Fair? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Simon & Garfunkel: The Legendary Folk Rock Duo
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is one of Simon & Garfunkel's most iconic songs, and it has a rich history and several interesting facts associated with it:
Traditional English Ballad: The song "Scarborough Fair" is based on a traditional English ballad that dates back to the 17th century. The original ballad tells the story of a man who sets a series of impossible tasks for his former lover to prove her love for him.
Fusion of Two Songs: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is a fusion of two songs. The first part is "Scarborough Fair," which is a traditional folk song, and the second part is "Canticle," which is an original composition by Paul Simon. The blending of these two songs adds depth and complexity to the piece.
Art Garfunkel's Distinctive Voice: Art Garfunkel's hauntingly beautiful voice is one of the defining features of the song. His clear, high tenor adds an ethereal quality to the music.
Unusual Instruments: The song features a unique mix of instruments, including harpsichord and woodwind instruments. These instruments give the song a distinctive and somewhat medieval sound.
Political and Social Themes: The "Canticle" portion of the song includes lyrics that touch on political and social issues of the 1960s, including civil rights and the Vietnam War. This blending of old and new themes is a hallmark of Simon & Garfunkel's music.
Bridge Over Troubled Water Album: "Scarborough Fair/Canticle" is part of Simon & Garfunkel's fourth studio album, "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme," which was released in 1966. The album also includes other classics like "Homeward Bound" and "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)."
Use in Films and TV: The song has been featured in numerous films and TV shows over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity. Notably, it was used in the soundtrack of the film "The Graduate" (1967), further cementing its place in pop culture.
Grammy Awards: Simon & Garfunkel won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1969 for "Mrs. Robinson," which was originally included in the "Bookends" album but later added to the "Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme" album. This recognition helped boost their already impressive career.
"Scarborough Fair/Canticle" remains a timeless classic that showcases Simon & Garfunkel's talent for blending folk traditions with contemporary themes and creating music that resonates with audiences across generations.