Non-Lexical Vocables: Nonsense Syllables from Around the World Non-lexical vocables are syllables without any semantic meaning, sometimes called “nonsense syllables.” In this episode of Folk Files, we’ll explore lilting, yodeling, konnakol, throat singing, and other vocable traditions from around the world. During our global musical journey, we’ll discover that these syllables carry meaning, even though … Read More
Discovering the origins of “Who Killed Cock Robin” Introduction – Exploring “Who Killed Cock Robin” Who Killed Cock Robin? It was I, said the Sparrow. But where did the song come from? And what does it mean? Explore a world of birds, nursery rhymes, mythology, and history in this month’s episode. Find out how the … Read More
Songs about Highwaymen and an Exploration of “Cadgwith Anthem” (“Robbers’ Retreat”) Introduction – Songs about Highwaymen Robbers, bandits, highwaymen…there are a lot of English folk songs about outlaws. In this episode of Folk Files, we’ll look at why there are so many songs about criminals and what patterns exist in these ballads. Then, we’ll look … Read More