The recording features an Irish harp with thick brass strings, modeled after the 16th-century 'Queen Mary' harp, and a Baroque harp with gut strings.
Cultural Impact
The word 'carol' originally meant a dance performed in a circle with singing, likely derived from ancient ritual dances with call-and-response chanting.
Historical Context
Davies Gilbert and William Sandys, scholars from Cornwall, were crucial in the folk-song revival because their collections were the first to include both tunes and words for carols.
Historical Context
Many symbols and practices of the Celtic midwinter celebration known as Yule, which predates Christmas by thousands of years, have been absorbed into early Christian festivals.
Historical Context
In the 18th and 19th centuries, collectors like Allan Ramsay, Edward Bunting, Davies Gilbert, and William Sandys began rescuing folk tunes, songs, and carols from obscurity.
Historical Context
The ancient Celts, who lived throughout Britain, celebrated the winter solstice (Yule) with lights and evergreens to symbolize life and fortify hope for the returning sun.
Instruments
A psaltery with red brass strings, made by Colin Booth, is also used on this recording, based on 16th-century models.
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Differences
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