With songs from a solo tradition, appropriated by an ensemble of singers with formalised harmonies, we have to face the question: is the ‘folk choir’ an oxymoron? In preparing this talk we have reflected on our professional experience, considered relevant literature, analysed folk choir musical arrangements, and conducted interviews with our fellow folk choir leaders. With these methods we have examined the notion of ‘tradition’; the origins of ensemble singing; the social and political context from which folk choirs emerged; the bridges between folk choirs and other folk traditions; and the choir leader’s prerogative to preserve traditional melodies within choir arrangements.
Speakers: Marilyn Tucker and Paul Wilson
Full lecture title: Folk choirs: Their Origins and Contribution to the Living Tradition
