Medieval Ballads
Click here to hear another ballad
The tradition of singing ballads originated in the courts in Southern France in the early 1200. From there it spread throughout Europe and also to America.
The texts and the melodies changed as they traveled from singer to singer and often you can find many different versions of the same song.
- The Waterman walked upon the maiden's farm
- And in the yard stood the maiden with her long hair let down
- With all honor
This is the first line of a Ballad that was noted down on an island off the coast of Finland.
- And when they came to the middle of the sea
- Waves foamed white as far as they could see
- Row me over the water with these oars
Johanna has translated ballads from this area into English and in our proogram we perform these and other ballads from different parts of the world. We also tell the stories behind them.
- She tapped on the door with her fingers so small
- Stand up young man, pull the latches from the door
- There is a cold wind blowing from the sea
Original song texts printed 1934 by The Society of Swedish Literature in Finland
Contact us to book a performance:
Scott and Johanna Hongell-Darsee
(505) 294-4567
jhdarsee@yahoo.com
Contact us to book a program of Medieval Ballads:
Scott and Johanna Hongell-Darsee
(505) 294-4567
jhdarsee@yahoo.com