Some more seasonal songs to try

Three more carols that have been tried our at recent Chichester and Worthing sessions.

Ideo or "Personent Hodie" 

Lyrics

Tune

This is a carol, taken from a 16th Century collection of carols called Piæ Cantiones, is one that many of our singers already have in their song books but which has so far not been adopted. 

In the Bleak Mid-Winter 

Lyrics

Also know as "A Christmas Carol"  This is a poem by Christina Rossetti, published in 1872, sung to Gustav Holst's setting (Cranham, 1906). She may have written it during a winter visit to William Blake at his cottage in Felpham. 

The Boar's Head Carol 

Lyrics

The boar's head with an apple in its mouth is carried into the banquet hall on a gold or silver dish to the sound of trumpets and the singing of minstrels. At Hurst College in Hurstpierpoint, the boar’s head is paraded around the cloisters followed by the choir singing the Boar’s Head Carol.

Seasons Turn ....

As the old year of 2022 draws to a close and the new year 2023 approaches, the "South Downs Folk Singers” can look back with pleasure at all the singing and good company we’ve had at our Local Group sessions, and at the variety of public events we done this year. 

Many thanks to all our hospitable hosts for their invitations, to our audiences who have listened and joined in - and of course to all our loyal singers and our singing leads who have prepared, travelled and sung for these sessions and events. 

This December we greatly enjoyed singing at two seasonal events - first at the Weald and Downland Living Museum’s "Advent Market " and then at a "Petworth House at Christmas" open day - and the festive season continues into January with the fun of two "Wassails".

On Thursday January 5th some of us will be singing in support of the Sompting Morris side’s “Wassail"  in Tarring Village (located in West Worthing). The event begins at 8pm with a torch light parade in the village High Street, and we'll be singing in the garden of “The Vine” pub to welcome the crowds as the parade returns for the traditional Wassail ceremony. 

(Please note - this gathering replaces the usual Worthing Local Group session at the Barn in Goring on the first Thursday of the month.  We will resume our Worthing sessions as usual in February - on February 2nd.)

On January 21st we will be contributing to the “Sing and Stomp” evening in Sullington - and more lovely events will doubtless follow through the year as our 2023 programme develops.  (Please keep an eye on our Diary Dates page for details.) 

We are always open to new events, and to new singers joining us - so if you need to make a new year resolution why not decide to invite us to sing for you, plan to come and see us at an event - or come along and SING with us at one of our regular Local Group Sessions?    We hope to hear from you soon!

"Happy New Year" !

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday December 22nd 2022

19 of us crammed into a packed Chichester Inn to offer the customers an evening of proper pub carols, sung loudly and lustily to the accompaniment of melodeon, whistles and guitar. Thank you, Anne, Alan and Dave, for bringing your instruments. 

We sang all our favourite carols and some wassail songs as well. Floor spots were performed by Chris, reciting Les Barker’s hilarious poem “Spot of the Antarctic”; Gordon who, whilst juggling, gave us an amusing self-penned ditty entitled “Look after your Balls”; Dave who gave us “Gaudete” with all the verses sung in Latin; Alan who led us in singing the “Boar’s Head Carol” and followed that up by reciting Kipling’s “Eddi of Manhood End”. 

Our singing eventually cleared some much-needed space in the room, but not everyone left and many came to say how much they enjoyed singing along with us! We sang “Happy Birthday” to Amaryllis and Beryl and also to a group of youngsters who came in from the other bar where they had been celebrating the birthday of a lad called Tom. 

Thank you to everyone who came to sing, enjoy a drink, share mince pies and spread some seasonal cheer. It was a very jolly evening! Happy Christmas to you all! See you again next month at Tarring Wassail on 5th January?

Worthing Local Group Report - Thursday December 1st 2022

Our December session was in the company of a Christmas tree and some seasonal sparkle at the Barn.  We began with a few notices before the singing - including the announcement that our SDFS “Revels” party evening for all our singers and their family and friends, is making a post Covid comeback - on March 25th 2023.  Not a winter wassail this time - but on ‘Lady Day’ as a celebration of the coming Spring!  (More details for our singers will follow in the new year.)

Our singing started with a couple of the songs used at the recent Weald and Downland Advent Market, and we were warmed by the positive feedback from Emily and others about how much our performance there had been enjoyed.  We sang the "Holly and the Ivy" and "Sweet Chiming Bells", and then moved to other seasonal songs, not in any current event sets - starting with trying all the verses of the "Falmer Carol".  Quite a long one in its entirety, so we trimmed it a little by having fewer chorus intervals.  It’ll need some more attention next year, but agreed its local history makes it one we should keep in the frame for future performances, and our enjoyment.  "Masters in the Hall" was nominated to sing next - another one liked by some folks but not by others. Then, one offered in previous years but hardly tried since - “Ideo" - and agreed to add it to the 'songs to try' reminder list for next year.   Attention turned next to January festivities and the Wassail songs we love.  Starting with the "Gloucester Wassail" (this time using verses 1,4, 5,6 and 10), and the "Apple Tree Wassailing Song".  In the break Emily shared details of the ‘wassail' event at Sullington Barn on January 21st, after which our singing resumed with birthday good wishes to Sheila!

Continuing with the seasonal songs, we enjoyed “Here We Come A-wassailing", the "Moon Shone Bright", and the "Sugar Wassail”.  Alan sang for us, and then we tried, "Wassail the Silver Apple", which is a little different to the other wassail songs we do, well liked by all, and certainly one we’d like to use more often. We finished our singing with a rousing rendition, in multiple parts, of Alan’s 'Wassail Around”.  The evening concluded with seasonal good wishes all round too,  plus a reminder that there will be no Worthing session at the Goring Barn on January 5th.  (We will instead be gathering to contribute to the Sompting Morris’ Wassail in Tarring Village, starting at 8pm.)  Our usual Worthing local group sessions will resume at the Goring Barn in February (Feb. 2nd).

Come and join us in 2023 - or maybe see you before then at Petworth House on Dec.10th!

Chichester Local group's December meeting - change of date for this month only

For December only - The "Chichester Inn" will be hosting our Chichester Local Group session on the fourth (not the third as usual) Thursday of the month - so we'll be meeting there on December 22nd, for an evening of festive songs in festive mood. Same time as usual, 7.30 to be underway by 8.00pm.

(And, advance warning of a change to our Worthing Group's session at The Barn in Goring Barn in January ......                     Because the date (January 5th) coincides with the Sompting Morris side's Wassail event in Tarring village, to which we have been invited, we will be joining the fun there instead.  In Tarring High Street and at the Vine Pub, 8pm start.  We'll be back at the Barn for our February meeting on Thursday Feb 2nd 2023.) 

Weald and Downland Museum's Advent Market - "Thank You All"

A big "Thank You" to all our singers who made their way through foggy conditions to get to the Weald and Downland Living Museum to sing at their Advent Market yesterday (Nov.27th.)  And many thanks to our generous hosts at the Museum, for their invitation and hospitality.  Although the elements were damp and grey for most of the day it was not enough to prevent enjoyment of this festive event and the pleasure we always have in singing there. Thanks also to the visitors who stopped to listen to us, some joining in with a song or two - singing is such a joy in itself, and sharing our songs with others is always a plus!

Keeping the festive mood going, our next performance event is on December 10th at the National Trust's Petworth House, where halls with be decked in readiness for Christmas. We're looking forward to singing our songs and sharing them with visitors there too - so we'll see you soon!

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday November 17th 2022

Ten singers gathered at the "Chichester Inn" to share some songs.  We were sad to miss the leadership of Alan who had to stay at home on flood alert as the waters of the Arun rose, but in his place Stephen A. did an excellent job in keeping us all on track.

The group worked its way through the songs listed for our events at the Weald and Downland Museum (November 27th) and Petworth House (December 10th) - without too much arguing about keys and starting notes, or the word changes that have been made here and there over the years - and by keeping up a good pace we sounded pretty good.  Exceptions were: "Silent Night ", an incomer to our usual songs and we weren't prepared for more than a single verse - and our modest attempts at the rounds "Gather Round the Fire" and "Hey Ho".  We moved on with the "Falmer Carol", not in the current event sets but which we all liked - and wondered why we only sang two verses and repeated one when there are other verses which help to tell the Christmas story?  Something to be considered with SDFS chums in our other groups, in the hope of using the whole song in future.

NB - At close of play our host at the "Chichester Inn" informed us that arrangements for our next meeting on December 15th would need to change due to a Christmas party booking.  The smaller bar was offered instead. Our singers will be consulted on this option and revised plans will be confirmed as soon as possible.  (Please watch this News page or the Diary Dates page for details.)

 

Festive Events for Advent and Christmas

We are looking forward to the pleasure of some seasonal singing at two festive events in the next month.

The first, on Sunday November 27th, is the "Advent Market" at the lovely Weald and Downland Living Museum.  We'll be singing there, near the Market Square, at 11.40 and again at 1.45pm.  

Then on Saturday December 10th we'll be singing at splendid Petworth House, for one of their pre-Christmas open days.  Our two sets there will be in the courtyard near the house, at 11.30 and 2.30pm.

Come and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, the festive mood and the songs we have to share at either or both of these special events before Christmas - and why not have some extra fun by joining with us on a song or two!

(See our Diary Page for more details of what else we're up to - and please check the National Trust's and the Weald and Downland's own websites if you want more details of their events.)

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday November 15th 2022

With several regulars absent due to illness, shielding, train difficulties and other events (gospel singing, pub carols and dancing, we’re a busy lot!) there were twelve singers at the John Harvey Tavern tonight. We welcomed returning singers Ruth & Steve who sang with us several years ago when we were at The Royal Oak and have also sung with local group “Shepherds Arise”.

After warming up with the lively “Country Life” we then marked the Remembrance period with “Follow Me ‘Ome” representing the life and loss of a soldier and “Ladies Go Dancing at Whitsun” depicting the women left behind to carry on traditions. Next was “Caburn Hill” in two equal parts harmony with the composer Dave Turner leading one part and Tina leading the other.

Turning to Christmas we sang the familiar “Falmer Carol” (“See Seraphic Throngs”) and then two new ones from the list to try for next year. “Now Christmas is Come”, is a lively carol collected by Lucy Broadwood from the “Singing Baker of Cuckfield”. In contrast “The Sinners’ Redemption” is more unusual but equally lovely in a minor key. Singers picked them both up very quickly and enjoyed singing them.

In the break we discussed the session time. The pub is now opening later, and all present agreed to revert to our later starting time (Nick had already expressed a preference for this via email, due to timing of travel from Bexhill after work). Sessions will therefore be 7:30-10pm starting from December. Jan passed on thanks from her mother, other care home residents and staff after our small group sing in Henfield. Other singers thanked Jan for the convivial gathering afterwards at her house, including excellent cakes. Now Margo has departed we are looking for a volunteer(s) for the admin support role and to represent Lewes at the SDFS Committee. Jan agreed to write future Local Group session reports for the Blog. Others will give further thought to the other roles and a general appeal will go out by email.

After all the “business”, back to the singing, and we restarted with “On Sussex Hills”. More Christmas songs followed. “When it’s Christmas Time (Ring Bells Ring)” is another new one to try, a jolly modern song by Glen Redman of Brighton Morris & Brighton Pub Carols, which mentions the ancient Yule, Saturnalia and misrule as well as Christmas, so something for everyone there. Then “Gather Round the Fire” (a newish winter round) and “While Shepherds Watched” (to the Pentonville tune). We rounded off another evening together with “East Sussex Drinking Song” and “Come Stranger, Come Friend”.

Some, new to some of us, "Seasonal Songs to Try"

Tina in our Lewes local group has reminded us of some seasonal South Downs songs we have yet to try or use regularly. They were added to our main "Songs and Recordings" page when we started this new SDFS Blog, before the "Other Songs to Try" page was created.  They are:

"Now Christmas is Come"

"Shepherds Arise"

"Sinners Redemption"

"Then Let Us Be Merry"

"Wake Ye Shepherds"

"When It's Christmas Time"

So give them a look and a listen and see what you think.  There is still time to sing and enjoy them at our South Downs Folk Singers local sessions this winter, and then perhaps use them more, and share them at public performances, in December 2023.

Worthing Local Group Report - Thursday November 3rd 2022

A goodly crowd gathered again at the Barn again, full of cheer in anticipation of singing songs in readiness for the festive season ahead.  We started with an update about plans for the Weald and Downland Advent Market event (Nov.27th) - then we got on with the singing!  We began with "Holly Bears a Berry", followed by "The Coppers Christmas Song", the "Pentonville" shepherds watched, "Angel Gabriel", "Sweet Chiming Bells" and the "Sussex Carol" (remembering to repeat the last verse to finish it).  More fun was had with the seasonal Rounds: "Child of Light" mixed and matched with "Hey Ho Winter Snow", and "Gather Round the Fire".  We look forward to sharing these with any listener wanting to join in at the Advent Market and our sing at Petworth House on Dec.10th. A well earned break included some more forward planning notices - including mention of another seasonal sing at Sullington Barn on January 21st (more details to follow).

Singing resumed with "Masters in the Hall", "Deck the Halls", "Fields Lie Silent" and "The Woodcutters Song".  "Silent Night" was then suggested and tried, although not everyone knew or had the words available.  Its origins are not in the South Downs, but most agreed it would be a familiar song that listeners at our events would be able to join in with. (N.b. it's not on the SDFS Blog, but doubtless can be found online elsewhere.)

The evening concluded with the pleasure of another Round, “I Heard a Bird Sing”, which was tried in multiple parts but in the end agreed that just 2 parts worked best.  The evening concluded with a cheery rendition of "The Holly and the Ivy" with our usual folksy tune.  Well done all!

See you in December!

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday October 18th 2022

Eleven of us gathered at the John Harvey Tavern. Tina had brought along suggestions and word sheets for a selection of seasonal autumn and winter songs, mostly based on the set lists for upcoming events in Henfield (small group event at Jan’s mother’s care home), Weald & Downland Living Museum and Petworth. Singers took it in turns to call out their preferences as we went along and we got through 15 of these songs.

We warmed up with old favourites “Farmer’s Toast” and “Fields Lie Silent” . Some time was then spent concentrating on Alan’s new composition “My Downland Remembered” which everybody agreed was musically delightful as well as moving in its depiction of his Sussex ancestor who had been transported to Australia for a minor theft. Back on familiar ground we rattled through “Seasons Turn”, “Sweet Chiming Bells”, “The Angel Gabriel”, “Copper’s Christmas Song, “Holly and the Ivy” (to the “folkie” tune) and “I Heard a Bird Sing” (as a round in two parts, we were running out of time leading up to the comfort break, so didn’t venture into more parts on this occasion).

Having refilled drinks, we spent some time in general chat and catching up. We welcomed Margo who was back again from Wales. The Henfield event is now confirmed on 8th November and there is space for a couple more singers. There is the option of wassail singing at Tarring on 5th January instead of the usual Worthing session. We discussed future Lewes sessions and agreed not to move the November and December days as in previous years but to continue on the third Tuesday for simplicity. These will be at the John Harvey Tavern for the moment, while also looking into other future options and it was agreed this could be widened to consider venues other than pubs. We passed the hat round to cover the £25 room fee and ended with a float of £5 to carry forward.

 We continued with the cold and seasonal items of “Poor Froze Out Gardeners”, “Where Stormy Winds do Blow” and “Masters in This Hall” before diverting to “Parting Song”, then “Woodcutters Song” and ended with “Thousands or More” (we stood for this last song - somehow it feels more joyful and vibrant than sitting down!)

A very enjoyable evening with everyone working hard and some glorious harmonies.

We have a New Blog Page!

There is now a separate Blog page for the "Catches and Rounds" we've been doing at our sessions and at some events.   If you want to find your favourites, they are listed alphabetically.  Some we've had for a while are still on the Songs and Recordings Page, but will gradually be moved across to the new collection page, and any more new ones will join them there.  Enjoy!

A revived "Song to Try" again!

The words and score for "Seasons Turn" have been added to the recordings already listed on our Songs and Recordings Page.   Our Lewes group have been singing this song in their sessions, and Worthing and Chichester groups might like to try it too.

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday October 20th 2022

Fifteen stalwart singers supported the Chichester October meet-up.  Alan was vaguely in charge as usual and led the group through a repertoire of Christmas and Winter songs in readiness for the forthcoming Christmas performances.  The aim was to make sure that everyone was confident with the melodies of songs that might be used to sing out.   It was great to see Julia – one of our newer recruits and Amaryllis was again very welcome, prompting Alan on tunes he’d forgotten and providing beautiful harmony lines to many songs.  At times as a solo performer!  

An astounding 18 songs were sung through the evening, the first half including:  Holly and the Ivy, Copper’s Christmas Song, While Shepherds Watched (Pentonville version) and Poor Froze Out Gardeners (as a break from Christmas!)  Feeling confident, the group sang I Heard a Bird Sing as a round and ventured as far as three parts without collapsing in disarray which earned a round of applause from other folk in the bar area.  Hark the Herald Angels and The Angel Gabriel carols completed the first half. 

In the second half, the Christmas theme resumed with Masters in This Hall and Deck the Halls which inspired some impromptu dancing by some of the young audience in the bar.  The evening continued with Sweet Bells, Fields Lie Silent, and a further round – Child of Light and Hey Ho Winter Snow which again proved successful, even in the face of an ambitious attempt to sing them both together.  Gather Round the Fire proved a popular addition to the repertoire of rounds which had recently been introduced at Worthing.  Where Stormy Winds do Blow, Sussex Carol (with the five men present putting on a very good performance in their solo parts), The Woodcutters Song, and The Falmer Carol completed the Christmas theme.  

 

It just remained to sing the Parting Song to round off this very full evening of song.

 

Anne S

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday October 18th 2022

(The South Downs Folk Singers had their October meeting in the John Harvey Tavern in Lewes as planned - and the report of their session will follow as soon as possible.)

Worthing Local Group Report - Thursday October 6th 2022

27 singers, including a welcome newcomer, Carol, and a welcome return visit from Margo, gathered at the Barn.  It was another busy and sociable evening, beginning with a briefing about plans for the Weald and Downland Museum’s Advent Market event on November 27th.  (More info on this and our Sing at Petworth House on December 10th will be shared with all as soon as confirmed).  Looking even further ahead to the New Year, we agreed to forgo meeting at the Barn on January 5th in favour of joining the Wassail singing in Tarring village the same evening.  Some information was also passed on to singers, from Leigh, about a talk on Hilaire Belloc by Chris Hare. 

In pre-Covid times this month would have been the SDFS AGM  - yet to be resumed as a full meeting.  In the interim, to fulfil the minimum requirement, our Treasurer Angela presented the annual accounts for information and scrutiny by singers. (Copies available to all our singers by email request).  Invitation was made to singers from any of our three local groups, to volunteer and join the SDFS committee - face to face meetings (about 3 or 4 times a year) are due to resume soon. 

Prior warning had been given to bring songs for the winter and festive season (to brush the dust off possible choices for the November and December events).  The first request made from these was “ Holly and Ivy”, then sung with festive gusto.  “The Coppers Christmas Song”; "While Shepherds Watched (Pentonville)”; “Angel Gabriel”;  “Sussex Carol” and “Sweeting Chiming Bells”  followed with equal enjoyment.  Also requested before a break were some rounds, “Hey Ho Winter Snow” and  "Gather Round the Fire, Let the bright warming cheer your heart, Hail the woodland Lord.”   

In the break Michael gave details of a new folk sing-around in Arundel, Gill shared some musical memorabilia, and we all sang Alan’s version of 'Happy Birthday’ for a new great-grandchild born today, and to our Lead and singers with October birthdays.  Our festive singing resumed with another request, "Ding Dong Merrily on High”, but this was then rejected as not yet in our existing set on the Blog (but could be a possible addition for 2023). We continued with familiar songs “Hark the Herald Angels”;  “Holly Bears a Berry”;   “Poor Froze Gardeners”  and “Where Stormy Winds do Blow”. By then time was running out, so we concluded with the gentleness of “Fields Lie Silent”.  Thanks to all present for your positive energy and a busy and enjoyable session!   Song choices for our festive events will now be finalised and we’ll doubtless revisit them, amongst others, at our next meeting at the Barn in November. 

September / October Catch-up

We've had a busy time recently with public events through September into October.  So a great big "THANK YOU" to all our singers who went those extra miles to support our performances.  Likewise 'thank you' to our Event Leads who help us prepare and who work hard to keep us on track when we're 'out and about'!  And of course, thanks to everyone across Sussex who took the time to watch and listen to us, and to our hosts at the various events for giving us such lovely opportunities to sing and share our South Downs songs.

There will be a short pause in our event calendar before we're be back to sing at the Weald and Downland Living Museum again at their Advent Market on Sunday November 27th.  Soon after that we'll be singing in support of the National Trust's Christmas open days at Petworth House on Saturday December 10th.  Do come along to share in the fun - and join us in singing some of the songs! 

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday September 15th 2022

Eleven stalwart singers attended this month's SDFS Chichester group meeting.  Alan led the evening, with occasional leadership from Amaryllis, who will be leading a forthcoming event and who was a most welcome addition to the Chichester meeting!

We opened with a seasonal song, "All Among the Barley", that some folk had recently not felt ready to sing out, and Alan demonstrated a couple of tune points.   Anne and Steve managed to hold the base part that had been taught at Worthing.  Following this, all present felt they would be happy to sing it out.  "Lammas Carol" was sung with confidence and kept the group in seasonal mode.  Alan reminded all that some parts had been introduced by Emily and these can be found on the SDFS Blog along with the tune (which may need a revised recording).  "Oak and Ash and Thorn"  followed and gained applause from the bar – what a great song, well sung last night by our group!  

 

Delving into some less well known parts of the repertoire, the group tried "The Loyal Lover" which hadn’t been sung a great deal recently.  Perhaps this is not a song for a noisy outside venue and possibly the starting note was also a bit low.   Amaryllis sang her new composition "Michaelmas" – again in keeping with the season.  This great little song, to the tune of "Poor Froze Out Gardener" was much appreciated by all present and certainly should be included in the official repertoire.  It can be found on the SDFS Blog and will be included in the upcoming W&D 'Michaelmas' event set list (Oct.1st).  On the theme of upcoming set lists (for the Stanmer event on Sept.18th), the group tried "Hannaker Mill", with some discussion about whether or not verses 2 and 3 should be “run together”.  Before a well earned break, the group tried "My Downland Remembered", a newish composition presented by Alan.  There was discussion about adding a harmony to enhance the last line of each verse.  Alan provided one and Steve duly recorded it to add to the song's Blog listing.

 

The second half opened with the "Woodcutter’s Song" in preparation for Winter set lists!  Amaryllis then led "Hares on the Mountain" at a brisk pace and all agreed it went well at that speed.  She later led "Life of a Man", and then "Smuggler’s Song"; all are going to be included in forthcoming events.   Alan turned to the newly introduced version of "The Lark in the Morning".  As in the Worthing group's session, a few changes to the wording were proposed for ease of singing.  Henny outlined plans for displaying any such changes suggested for a song on the song's lyrics sheet on the 'Songs to Try' page of the Blog (colour coded per local group and dated to identify the origin).  Alan led "One for the Rook" with full actions which was much enjoyed.  The evening finished on the suitable theme of "The Parting Song", enthusiastically supported by all.

 

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday September 13th 2022

10 of us gathered at The John Harvey Tavern, sadly our first session without Margo since her move to Wales. It was good to have Beryl and Amaryllis with us from Worthing, plus Nick from Bexhill and several points in between. Cathy joined us again and brought along her husband Joe this month.

This was a week earlier than usual, to fit in a practice before the Stanmer Village Permafest event on 18th and in preparation for this we ran through  “Bee-Boy’s Song”, “Twanky Dillo”, “West Sussex Drinking Song”, “Sussex Wedding Song”, “Oak, Ash & Thorn”, “Brisk Young Ploughboy”.

During the break we discussed the venue. The JHT has now confirmed there will be a £25 room hire fee which would mean reverting to passing round the pot at sessions. It was agreed to meet here in October, but also to explore other venues.   Jan mentioned we have been asked to sing again at her mother’s retirement home in Henfield (possible dates in October or November to be confirmed, and more details will be sent to singers).  

After the break we spent some time on newer songs  “A Lammas Carol” and “Michaelmas”, then returned to the seasonal favourite “Fields Lie Silent”  before ending with “East Sussex Drinking Song” and “Thousands or More”.

SDFS sing at the Fernhurst Furnace Open Day 2022

A dozen enthusiastic singers came together to sing our Sussex folksongs in the countryside at the annual historic Fernhurst Furnace Day. Ably led by Alan we presented a selection of rousing songs in three performances. We sang for the blacksmith and the brewer and were well received by all who heard us, especially those queuing for their lunch! It was a very enjoyable event and we trust we will be asked to perform again here next year.

Dave G.

Lewes Local Group - Reminder

Just a reminder to anyone interested in singing at our Lewes Local Group session this month - it will be happening a week earlier than usual this month, on Tuesday evening  September 13th.

Same place  - "The John Harvey Tavern" in Lewes,  same time - 6.30 until 9.30pm.

Join us there if you can!

(You can find more details about our Local Group sessions and our public events on the Diary Dates and New Singers pages of this Blog.)  

A Song to Try

Here's a new song offered by Amaryliss Gunn -  "Michaelmas",  sung to the tune of ’Poor Froze-out Gardeners’

You'll find the lyrics and tune using the links below.

Lyrics

Tune

Note: the lyrics have been updated - see post of 10th Sept 2024.

Worthing Local Group Report - Thursday September 1st 2022

Meeting and greeting filled the Barn until we drew the gathering together with "Twanky Dillo".  After a pause for a brief notice of interest to singers, and some feedback from recent public events, we resumed singing with the Copper's version of the "Lark in the Morning" (same tune different words) in which the prince and king in the last verse were displaced in favour of the "lark upon the wing"!  The "Lammas Carol" received some polishing, and moving from summer to autumn harvest we did the same for "All Among the Barley".  In the break various local notices were shared before returning to discussion about and more songs for our next events.  "Oldland Mill", "One for the Rook" and "Brisk Young Ploughboy" were sung, then "Hares on the Mountain" one not used for a while. The "East Sussex Drinking Song" had an airing in West Sussex, before reviving another song,"The Song of the Sussex Downsman" keeping up a good pace throughout. 

Casting our thoughts ahead to Michaelmas at the Weald and Downland Museum - Emily and Amaryllis sang for us Amaryllis' lyrics to her Michaelmas song set to the tune of "Poor Froze-Out Gardeners".  These lyrics and a recording from Amaryllis will soon be on the Blog as a 'Song to Try' and practise at home before the W&D event in October.  Farewells at the end of the evening included a fond farewell to Margo, as her much heralded move is now most definitely happening - Bon Voyage Margo, thank you again and please come back and sing with us any time you like!

Our September Events

Look and listen out for us next Sunday Sept. 4th at the Oldland Mill Open Day (nr. Keymer) - and the following Sunday at the Fernhurst Furnace Open day on Sept.11th.  

Continuing our weekly events this month, the Stanmer Village Fete comes next on Sunday the 18th, and towards the end of the month we're singing in Bognor at their very own "South Downs Music Festival" on Saturday September 24th.

Lots of lovely events to support, lots of South Downs songs to sing, and lots of chances for you to come along and see us!

Arundel Festival - amendment to our first Singing time on August 27th

The Festival organisers have today asked us to sing a little earlier than planned  - so we will now be singing in Tarrant Street, near the Nineveh Chapel, at 1.00 p.m.  not 1.30 as previously announced.

We will also be singing at 3.00p.m. in the sensory garden, as planned - it's called "The Pollinators Garden".

Hope you can find us in both of these lovely settings in Arundel - at 1.00 o'clock and again at 3.00!  See you there!

The "South Downs Folk Singers" at the Arundel Festival

This coming Saturday, August 27th, you can find a group of us in Arundel, singing in support of this year's Arundel Festival.  We will be singing at 1.30 p.m. in Tarrant Street and later at the Sensory Garden near the river at 3.00 p.m.  Come along, enjoy the festivities, and hear us sing our South Downs Songs - what better way to spend your Bank Holiday Saturday!

And if that's not fun enough, we'll be singing at various other events during September.  Starting on Sunday Sept. 4th - Oldland Mill near Keymer has invited us back, then heading west again we'll be making a return visit to the Fernhurst Furnace Open Day on the 11th.  Stanmer Village Fete is the place to be and hear us sing on the 18th - and last but far from least, we'll be singing at the South Downs Music Festival again in Bognor on the 24th.   

See more on our Diary Dates page - or if you need more details, or you'd like us to sing at an event,  just drop us a line (southdownsfolksingers21@gmail.com).

Come and See us, Hear us - and Join us!!

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday August 19th 2022

Fifteen stalwart Chichester supporters plus Stanley the dog attended the August Chichester session and with Alan occasionally in charge and sometimes not, sung their way through the set list for the forthcoming Arundel Festival appearance.  During the first half these included:  "One for the Rook", "Ale Glorious Ale", "Lammas Carol", "Turnip Hoer" and "Fathom the Bowl".  It was decided to swap out "Oldland Mill" for something a bit more boisterous as singing conditions in Arundel could be tricky in view of a noisy background.  It was decided that "Twanky Dillo" would probably fit the bill. 

To enliven the evening, Alan introduced a humorous skit for all to sing based on the harvest song, Plough the Fields and Scatter (Harvest Moan by Sid Kipper) which was much appreciated and Gordon sang one of his incomparable compositions “Termite Hoer” – how did he manage to write a line with a perfect rhyme to Voice Activated…?

 

Alan called all to order and commenced on the second half of the evening, picking from the Arundel set.  "Oak & Ash & Thorn", "Sussex Wedding Song".  Everyone present seemed confident with the rest of the set, so there followed a variety of material for all to enjoy.  Dave G introduced a potential new song from the singing of The Copper Family "All the Young Brethren", to much general acclaim and Steve recorded it to put onto the potential new song list on the website.  He also gave a rousing rendition of a version of "John Barleycorn" as we are rapidly approaching the Autumn season and there was much discussion about differing versions!  Alan taught some lines from "All Among the Barley" as re-introduced by Emily at the last Worthing session and settled various differences of opinion about the tune!  He also tried out his own composition, "My Downland Remembered" and agreed with the suggestion that it could do with a chorus between verses.  "Searching for Lambs" followed by "The Parting Song" rounded off the evening in fine voice.

 

 

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday August 16th 2022

It was good to be back in The John Harvey Tavern after the heatwave forced us to abandon our July meeting.  Beryl and Amaryllis joined Angela and me on our journey over from Worthing and Jan arrived with her souvenir from dancing at Sidmouth Festival - a wrist in plaster; and Cathy and Karen finally managed to see what we were like having already sung in choirs with Mac, Margaret and Tina. So there were 12 singers but only 11 voices as poor Tina was still being very cautious after losing her voice to a nasty throat virus.  Nevertheless, she stoically led us through 15 songs especially those less familiar ones which we are more likely to use in performance situations:  "Pleasant and Delightful," "Ale Glorious Ale", "The Magpie", "Country Life", "Rosebuds in June", "The Smugglers Song", "The Nightingale" and "On Sussex Hills". We checked "Oldland Mill" and "Halnaker Mill" ready for the Open Day on 4^th September and practised "The Lammas Carol", "Hares on the Mountain" and "The Song of the Sussex Downsmen", before finishing with "The East Sussex Drinking Song" and "Thousands or More".

In September, we will meet a week earlier on 13^th not the 20^th so that we can rehearse before the Falmer/Stanmer event on September 18th (see the Diary Dates page on this Blog).

Worthing Local Group Report - Thursday August 4th 2022

After some notices to update plans for our public events from August to December - we launched our singing with "Oak and Ash and Thorn" which got our voices exercised and our hearts beating a little faster.  Keeping the upbeat mood "Jim the Carter Lad" followed, with the claps after "crack, crack" still proving a challenge for some!  Emily led us through the "Lammas Carol" and introduced some high and low harmonies which made it even lovelier. "Oldland Mill" came next, with "So now the sails are turning" needing some attention to stop the sails carrying us away into the tune of the chorus.  Spreading the beats in "tur-ur-ning" ensured we kept on track for the rest of the verse. "One for the Rook" went smoothly before we rehearsed "Searching for Lambs", a gentle song but still at a good pace, to help settle in the harmonies.  After a break we resumed with "Come Write Me Down" (otherwise known as "The Sussex Wedding Song") and another couple from the old song book: "Fathom the Bowl" and "Ale Glorious Ale".  Now that we're in August and the end of harvest approaches, Emily reminded us of another lovely song, "All Among the Barley", which we enjoyed reviving with hopes of using it at events as the seasons change.  We went back to the "Lammas Carol" plus harmonies again, before concluding with good old "Thousands or More".  Time had run out for any more, but we agreed to give space to "My Downland Remembered"(another of Alan's songs), and to trying the Copper Family's words to "Lark in the Morning", next month.  See you then!   

Our Next Public Event - Saturday July 30th

On Saturday July 30th you can see and hear us at the Weald and Downland Living Museum - singing songs about the life and work of South Downs folk, as our contribution to the museum's "LAMMAS" week-end event.  We will be singing at the North Cray house at 11.30 a.m. and again at 1.30 p.m. 

Lammas being "loaf mass", from times when bread made of grain from the early harvest was blessed and celebrated in church.  Harvest festival, as we still know it, came later in the year when harvesting for the rest of the growing season was finished and 'home'. 

Be mindful of the extra traffic likely from the nearby Goodwood race meeting this week-end - but not daunted by that, we look forward to seeing you at the Museum for another sunny sing in the South Downs!

(Details of our future events, and our regular meetings, later in August and into September, and beyond, can be found on the Diary Dates page of this Blog.)

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday July 21st 2022

Our usual leaders, Alan and Dave, couldn't be there but our July's session at the "Chichester Inn” went ahead  - and we welcomed a new member, Roger. 

We'd agreed to concentrate on songs we like and, more importantly, know, and during the session we covered a good few from the list for the Weald and Downland Museum's Lammas event  at which the SDFS will be singing on July 30th - "On Sussex Hills”; "Rosebuds in June”; "Brisk Young Ploughboy”; "Green Grow the Laurels”; “Nightingale” ; "Country Life”; "One for the Rook” and "Farmers Toast”.  We also tried the newest ones: "Lammas Carol” and, rather less successfully, "Oldland Mill”.  Some other old  favourites were requested: “Three Maidens”; "Pleasant and Delightful”; "Rolling in the Dew” - and "Ebernoe Horn Fair”, which, as  Gordon reminded us, would be happening again as usual on July 25th. 

In a break from singing our South Downs songs, the beer drinkers were delighted by what the “Chichester Inn" had to offer this month, and we were all delighted by the beautiful song “Harbour” by Anna Tabbush, sung for us by Stephen, Sue and Viv.  (Stephen reported, Anna is a choir leader from Midhurst and she wrote “Harbour" in the wake of the Syrian crisis. Since the Ukraine crisis she has made the song available to download for free, only asking users to make a donation to the Refugee Council).  Gordon also entertained us with his song, "Site For Sore Eyes", about the Virgin Mary Spring in Petworth, which has now become a regular part of the annual  pilgrimage to the spring.   And when it came to closing the session, “Rolling Home” was again requested to send us on our way.  More next month!

Alert - the Lewes Local Group session tonight (July 19th) - has been cancelled

We're very sorry to say - because of the exceptional weather we're experiencing at the moment, we feel it best NOT to invite folks to travel to this month's regular early evening sing at the "John Harvey Tavern" in Lewes.  

As Tina, who leads the sessions in Lewes, says - "... it will still be 27 degrees at 5pm when people would be travelling to Lewes for a 6:30pm start .... I don't feel comfortable encouraging people to make what is officially classed as an unnecessary journey.  I'm therefore sadly going to cancel .... I'd rather think of the most vulnerable and be safe rather than sorry".

Many apologies for the short notice and for any disappointment or inconvenience caused to our loyal singers and any newcomers hoping to join us this evening.   We look forward to giving you all a very warm (but not uncomfortably hot) welcome again at our next Lewes session in August! 

Worthing Local Group Report - Thursday July 7th 2022

30 of us gathered on a warm summer evening to sing, learn and socialise. We welcomed John after his long absence and he updated everyone on the event programme he's been working on behind the scenes (all listed on the Diary Page of this Blog). Then, guided as ever by Emily, and with advice from Alan on his songs, we enjoyed songs old and new for the simple pleasure of singing them and also to polish some for performance at coming events.  "Jim the Carter Lad" got us moving, with the percussive addition of a hand-clap immediately after singing the word "crack" in the chorus. A bit of a challenge to start with but mastered by most!  Jim was followed by the "Brisk Young Ploughboy", before we spent time learning Alan's beautiful "Lammas Carol". Harmonies were considered but at this stage, and for performance on July 30th at the Weald and Downland Museum event, the melody was our priority.   "Green Grow the Laurels" was revived and enjoyed with a gusto befitting the 'deceived woman' it describes, before we calmed and continued with another new song "Oldland Mill", this time including the range of harmonies it offers.  A latish but well-earned break left us with a shortened second half.  We resumed by revisiting the "Lammas Carol", singing "One for the Rook" and revisiting "Oldland Mill" to consolidate our learning. The evening closed with another song we are beginning to learn, Alan's song "My Downland Remembered".  More on that next month we hope.  Thanks again to Emily, Alan, and everyone there.

Reminder - Worthing Local Group's session date has changed to July 7th

It's the first week of July, and as per agreement our Worthing Local Group session has changed to the first Thursday of the month and will be happening at The Barn this coming Thursday, July 7th.  As usual, we aim to start singing at 7.30p.m. 

(Please see our Welcome page and Diary page for more details.)

If you are new to our sessions but would like to join us, please let us know in advance by dropping us a line to our email address.   If you've been before we'll be very glad to see you again - so please don't wait for the second Wednesday in the month as we used to be - we won't be there!

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday June 23rd 2022

Fifteen singers (and two very well-behaved dogs) arrived for our monthly sing at the Chichester Inn and we had a very jolly and sociable evening. Expertly led by Alan we spent the first half practising and learning some new songs, notably Stuart Leon’s "Oldland Mill", "My Downland Remembered", which is a poem by E.V.Lucas set to music by Alan Wheeler, and "A Lammas Carol", with words and tune also written by Alan. We followed these songs by singing "The Ladies Go Dancing at Whitsun" and "The Loyal Lover". Then Dave introduced us to a Sussex song based on Hilaire Belloc’s "The South Country", which has a very catchy chorus. It was agreed that Dave should try to seek permission for us to learn this song in future.

We had a lengthy interval which allowed us to chat and order more drinks. I especially enjoyed a pint of Long Man Brewery’s Old Man original old ale, but other beverages were of course available! Then we sang out the evening with "Ale Glorious Ale", the "Saucy Sailor", "Rosebuds in June", the "Parting Song" and finished with "Rolling Home". Our singers are very good at bringing their song words with them. Sometimes however song sheets are found to be in short supply and there was great hilarity when Sue and Julia announced that they were happy to share their “saucy sailor” between them!

It was a most enjoyable evening. We hope to see lots more of you again next month at the Chichester Inn on Thursday 21st July when once again we will have fun singing songs old and new that connect us with our beautiful county of Sussex!

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday June 21st 2022.

Only seven quality singers tonight:  sadly Mac could not be with us.  We were disappointed not to have sung at the Jubilee Celebrations at Saltdean Lido, but in the open air seven singers are not enough and with only one man we didn't have the balance of voices.   In the Lewes Room of The John Harvey Tavern we can hear ourselves and produce a really good sound.  As we are in June, we had to start with “Rosebuds in June” and ”The Nightingale” before working on“A Lammas Carol”, we are quite confident with “Oldland Mill” now, as also,  “Country Life” and “Green Grows the Laurel” before a break.   After topping up our glasses, it was time to work on “Birds On The Spray”, “The Brave Eleven”, Ray’s “Forlorn Oak” (which reminds Tina of “Life of a Man” not sung tonight), then easing into “The Smugglers Song”, “The Parting Song”, “East Sussex Drinking Song” and finishing with “Thousands or More”. 

Weald & Downland Museum Midsummer Celebrations - Video

For your interest, here is a short video made of us whilst we sang "Rosebuds in June" during one of our sets at the Weald & Downland Living Museum's 'Midsummer Celebrations' last Saturday, June 18th.  Filmed and shared with us by one of our audience at the event, and forwarded for this Blog by one of our singers.  Thank you both.  

A Song to Try

The words and music for "A Site for Sore Eyes" have been written by Gordon Stephenson.   He says - "The Virgin Mary Spring, located in the woods east of Petworth, is a long-revered source of holy and healing water and every year, on the patronal festival in early September, St. Mary's Church holds an afternoon walk to the spring where a short service is conducted and those attending get sprinkled.  I wrote the song in 2012 and since then it has been sung on these occasions".

You'll find the lyrics and score using the links below.

Lyrics

Score

Tune

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A Song to Try

Here's a new song offered by Amaryliss Gunn -  "Sussex Shepherd's Song" ("Up Above Sullington").   It uses a poem by A. F. Bell set to a tune written, and sung on this recording, by Amaryliss. 

You'll find the lyrics and tune using the links below.

Lyrics

Tune

REMINDER

SDFS' Chichester Local Group will be meeting on Thursday June 23rd this month instead of June 16th .

Because of other commitments on 'Sussex Day" this week, Thursday June 16th, it has been agreed to move the SDFS Chichester Local Group session forward a week to Thursday June 23rd.

Same time (7.30 for 8.00), same place ("The Chichester Inn") - just a different week for this month only.  Back to the regular 3rd Thursday in the month as usual from July onwards.

Worthing Local Group Report - Wednesday June 8th 2022

 25 of us were at the Barn this month, with Emily leading, and newcomer Karen joining us and adding her voice to the harmonies; welcome Karen!   We launched with “Country Life” and continued with a selection of other songs also on the set list for the Stansted Garden Show event - “Jim the Carter Lad”, "Ale Glorious Ale”, “When Spring Comes In”, Gooches Beer”, “Bee Boys Song”, "One For the Rook”, "Oak and Ash and Thorn”, and last but not least, “Hard Times of Old England”, this time sung by men and women together. “Jolly Good Song”, not one we often do at sessions, was tuned to get the best start note and suitably enough heralded a break for refreshment.  “Turmut Hoer” followed before attention turned again to “Oldland Mill” to work on the lyrics, without the words in front of us, and to layer in the harmonies.  Emily briefed us about plans for our sing at the Weald and Downland Midsummer event on June 18th, and with little time left "Thousands or More” was requested as a good one to round off the evening.

Two other songs were discussed, but with no time to do more than this.  The first being different words for “The Lark in the Morning” (found in the Coppers Song Book) - and the second, the “Lamas Carol” and the harmony parts prepared for it.  We look forward to having time for both at our July meeting.   REMINDER - our July meeting at the Barn sees the start of our recently agreed change to the 1st Thursday of the month - so we'll be singing there again on Thursday July 7th.   

Current Events

The sun is just about shining again and we're looking forward to a dry sunny day and singing at the Stansted Park Garden Show tomorrow, June 11th.  The event opens at 10.00 and we'll be singing two sets there, on the steps of Stansted House, from around 11.30.

Then the following Saturday, June 18th, we'll be part of the Weald and Downland Living Museum's Midsummer Celebrations - singing during the day at the House on Sole Street, first set there at 11.30.

Why not come along to enjoy the events, the singing and the sunshine!

(For details of our other events later in the summer please refer to the Diary Page.)

Some Alternative Lyrics to Try

Here is a link to some different words for "The Lark in the Morning" (as found in the The Copper Family Song Book).  Sung to the tune we know (as listed on our Songs and Recordings page). 

Please note - some amendments to these lyrics have been proposed (at SDFS local group meetings in Sept 2022). These have been noted in the text for information (to try, discuss, and jointly agree before any changes are confirmed). 

Lyrics  

Our Events in June

June is here and the Summer has arrived!  Our "Diary Page' on this Blog lists the public events where we will be singing this month. 

Very unfortunately, and with apologies for any disappointment caused, due to Covid affecting a few of our singers we have had to cancel our appearance at the first of these, the Jubilee Celebrations at Saltdean Lido, today (June 3rd). 

We expect to be back to full strength for Saturday June 11th at the Stansted Park Garden Show, and then the following week-end Saturday June 18th at the Weald and Downland Living Museum's Midsummer Event.

The times we'll be singing at these events, and details of future events we have planned, can be found on our "Diary Page".  Please keep checking there and on this "News Page" for any additional events that may pop up as the year progresses.

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday May 19th 2022

A group of 12 plus Stanley the dog gathered in the Chichester Inn for a few drinks and to sing.  Thank you for the warm welcome given to us by the Landlord and staff as our tables were all reserved and displayed vases of lovely blossoms. Two new members joined us, Lillian for her first visit and Julia who was with us last month, both excellent singers who picked up the tunes very quickly.  

 As usual the meeting was a banterful social occasion and a chance to experience the fun of singing together, and this month also to practice some of the songs that might be sung at the Stansted gig.  We sang 7 songs in the first half, warming up our vocal chords on ”Country Life" (briefly accompanied by a falsetto harmony contributed by another guest at the pub) before moving on to other numbers.  Whilst trying to keep a lively pace and maintain the starting keys, we covered: “When Spring Comes In”; “Searching For Lambs”; “Drink Me Brave Boys”; “Rosebuds in June”; “The Ladies Go Dancing at Whitsun” and “Hard Times of Old England”. Then after the interval: “Oak and Ash and Thorn”; “One for the Rook”; “Turtle Dove”; “Lark in the Morning” and “Jim the Carter Lad” before closing with the “Parting Song”, ideal as an end piece.

 

We discussed the draft gig-list and remembering the rather difficult conditions when singing to a mostly moving audience and against background noise, we all believed the more upbeat songs (like “Oak and Ash and Thorn” and “ Jim the Carter Lad”) would do better than our quieter numbers, however much they might be our favourites. The final choice of songs will be confirmed once our time slots to sing at Stansted have been decided. 

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday May 17th 2022

Eleven singers spent a lovely evening revelling in song.  As this is probably the last session that Margo will attend at Lewes,Tina decided to let everyone choose the programme and this is the diverse and not entirely Sussex list:

“Rosebuds in June”, “On Sussex Hills”, “Pleasant and Delightful”, “Oldland Mill”, “Littlehampton Collier Lads”, “Searching for Lambs”, “The Sussex Wedding Song” (Come Write Me Down), “Hal-n-Tow”, a constructive session working through Alan’s “A Lammas Carol”, “Fathom the Bowl”, “Turtle Dove”, “ Bee Boys Song”, “ Hares on the Mountain”, (I shall adopt this as a Welsh song as Pen Y Fan will be in sight!) and “When Spring Comes In”.  

Beryl and Amaryllis joined us from Worthing and John and Gaynor who attended the original Lewes workshop in 2011 came along too and sang “The Parting Glass” and “The Leaving of Liverpool” as farewell songs and then we finished with “The Parting Song” and “Thousands or More”.

Sometimes, I do wonder why I am leaving such a wonderful group of people and such a varied landscape, so you are not alone in the puzzlement!  Thank you for all your good wishes and friendship over the years.  Golier – whatever that may mean.

"Words and Music" of May

The link below has kindly been forwarded to us by one of our singers.  It's to the Radio 3 "Words and Music" programme, with the theme of "May".  It includes music, readings and songs, and there are some lovely versions of a couple of the May songs that the SDFS also sing.  (On catch-up, it is possible to skim through and pick out the bits you like.)  

Here's the link

Event Cancellation Notice

We are very sorry to say the Saddlescombe Farm Open Day on June 12th, at which we were due to sing, has been cancelled. There may be another opportunity for us to sing there in September at a new event they are currently planning.  Details to follow. 

Worthing Local Group Report - Wednesday May 11th 2022

This month's evening at the Barn began with the presentation of a farewell card and gifts to one of our longstanding members, Margo, who has played an important part in the success of the South Downs Folk Singers since it began in 2013.  She will be missed by us all - but she remains an honorary member of the SDFS and we hope to see and sing with her again whenever she wants to visit.

We started our singing with a Sussex anthem "On Sussex Hills" before working on "One For the Rook", and "Searching For Lambs" with its lovely harmonies.  Emily then led us down a different path for an enjoyable sortie to sing an ancient catch "As I Walked Out One May Morning" - the fun and pleasure of singing it increased as we progressed towards achieving a four part round. Thanks Em, more please!    Emily's teaching continued, enabling us to learn the first verse or two plus the chorus of "Oldland Mill" the good old way - by ear!  After a break we returned to "Oldland Mill", adding the extra parts to the melody. Then, whilst May is still with us, "Hal an Tow" and "When Spring Comes In" were given another airing, before Alan and Em looked ahead and combined to sing for us a new one - the beautiful "Lamas Carol" which Alan has written and we hope to learn at future sessions.  By popular demand "The Bee Boys Song" and "Rolling Home" were sung, before we closed with "The Parting Song" - and more goodbyes and thank-yous to Margo. 

Chichester Local Group Report - Thursday April 21st 2022

Singers gathered for another sociable evening of singing at The Chichester Inn.   Starting with some songs from the set planned for the event at Oldland Mill (in Keymer) on May 1st, including: "Country Life", "When Spring Comes In", "It Is The First of May"and 'Thousands or More".  "Searching For Lambs", the "Parting Song" and "One For the Rook" were also sung and enjoyed - and a couple of new songs were presented.  Dave shared "The South Country", and Gordon sang a song he'd written: "The Termite Hoer" (based on a recent typo in the title of one already in our repertoire!).  Join us for more songs and singing at the next Chichester session on May 19th.  

Chichester Canal Bicentenary Celebrations - Video

For your interest here is the 'You Tube' video made by the organisers of Chichester Canal's Anniversary Celebrations where we sang on April 9th.  

About 12 minutes in you'll see and hear our performance of "Ale Glorious Ale".  You may also spot some familiar faces in the crowds and during the shanty singing.   

Thanks again to all who contributed.

A Song to Try

Here is a new song using an old tune and inspired by a typo in the songs listed for one of our recent public events!  It has been written and offered by Gordon from our Chichester group. 

"Termite Hoer" - to be sung to the tune of "The Turmut Hoer"

You'll find the lyrics using the link below.

Lyrics

Our Next Event - May 1st 2022

Although some days are still chilly, the Spring is swiftly moving towards Summer - and next Sunday sees the return of 'May Day'!  A group of us from the "South Downs Folk Singers" will be celebrating and singing at 11.00 a.m. on Sunday at the "Big Opening Day" at Oldland Mill near Keymer.  

We look forward to seeing you there!  

(For more about the mill and this event, please refer to their website:  https://www.oldlandwindmill.org.uk/newsite/ )

Lewes Local Group Report - Tuesday April 19th 2022

Following our much acclaimed appearance at The Firle Garden Show on Sunday 17th, with grateful thanks to singers from our Lewes, Worthing and Chichester local groups who joined forces there, nine of us returned to the John Harvey Tavern to sing again.  Many drinkers were sitting outside in the sunshine which is a hopeful sign, but as the sun sinks below the horizon, trade drops too and so, unfortunately, the pub’s closing time remains 9pm.

We started with "Hal-n-Tow", "It Is The First Of May" and "May Day Carol", before Tina patiently taught us Alan’s "Lammas Carol" which will be a good one to use in performance sets, not only for 1st August, but for times that we are considering Harvest or Milling.  Then on to two sea songs: "Littlehampton Collier Lads" and "They Won’t Let Us Go to Sea Any More", before some serious work on "Oldland Mill" and the harmonies that Tina has written for us.  They are on the blog under “Songs and Recordings”, lyrics and three harmony lines, choose whichever you like.

After a break we returned to learn two harmonies for "Halnaker Mill" which sound hauntingly good.  We gave "Seasons Turn" a good airing (it should be brushed up for inclusion on future set lists) before finishing with "The East Sussex Drinking Song" which was a fortuitous choice because Adrian had joined us for the evening after a long absence.

 

This month’s ZOOM session with Tina was before the Firle Garden Show.  Our next SDFS gathering will be at the "Big Opening Day" at Oldland Mill, Keymer on 1st of May.

Worthing Local Group Report - Wednesday April 13th 2022

We gathered again for an April Sing with the Spring in mind and an eye on the public events we have on the SDFS calendar in next couple of weeks.  By request to start, and under Emily's guidance throughout the evening, we launched with "Country Life" moving on to "When Spring Comes In", "It Is the First of May", and "Searching For Lambs" with extra time for the harmony part.  Changing theme, "The Sussex Wedding Song "("Come Write Me Down"), sung with a gusto, prompted the suggestion that an alternative version needs to be written in which the ladies choose not to leave off pleasure to be wives but spurn the chaps instead! 

On that note, after a break we resumed with a shortened version of "Hard Times" in which Richard sang a new to us final verse, thank you Richard.  "Turtle Dove" plus lovely harmonies came next, and "Lark in the Morning".  Then "Halnaker Mill" with some interesting details from Angela about its notation.  "Sussex by the Sea" changed the mood before we returned to the land and the seasons with the "May Day Carol", "Hal an Tow" and "One For the Rook".  Thanks Emily, thanks everyone - see you in June!

Current Events - April 2022

Here we are having a 'Jolly Good Sing' at  Chichester Canal's 200th Anniversary Celebration  on April 9th. 

After a few changes to plan along the way, a good time was had by all at a busy and popular event with plenty to see and hear.   Many thanks again to the organisers for inviting us. 

For our next Event - we will be moving from West to East Sussex, to sing at the Firle Place Garden Fayre next Sunday, April 17th.  Do come along and hear us sing there in another lovely setting on what we hope will be another sunny day!

Urgent notice  

For the Attention of our Singers - due to sing at the Chichester Canal Celebrations tomorrow.

Please refer to the email message sent to all this evening - about the songs we will be singing at this Event.

Thanks, and See you there!

Please Note!

To help prepare for our singing at Firle Place on April 17th, and also at Oldland Mill on May 1st, this month's "Zoom" has been moved to the earlier date of Sunday April 10th.  

Whether or not part of our SDFS groups due to sing at these events - all comers are welcome.

The Zoom login details remain the same:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83448393748?pwd=ZG9YVmVGZlRzcVpmZkZiR2MrU3JKdz09

Meeting ID: 834 4839 3748 

Passcode: 847775

Event Reminder

Firle Place Garden Fayre on Sunday April 17th

Here is the organiser's poster for this event, to remind you that we will soon be singing again in the grounds of beautiful Firle Place.  (Click on the image to enlarge it.)

SDFSingers who have volunteered (and are now listed) for our group on the day will be supplied with entry passes - but any others visiting with us will need to purchase tickets online as described (or £10 on the gate).  Our singing times (sometime after 11.00 in the morning and again in the afternoon) will be confirmed with the event organisers on the day.  Looking forward to it being another lovely day at Firle!

Another Two Songs to Try

Some more songs offered by Alan for us to enjoy, and to try at our local sessions if we'd like to. 

You'll find the lyrics and tunes using the links below.

Lammas Carol

(July 5th 2022 - This song has been moved to our "Songs and Recordings" Page)

Please find it by using this Page Link

Love and the Ball

Lyrics

Wmp3 (Tune)

A New Event for the SDFS Diary

QUEEN ELIZABETH'S PLATINUM JUBILEE CELEBRATION, Saltdean Lido, Friday 3rd June.

Two of our singers in the SDFS Lewes group are volunteers at the refurbished Saltdean Lido.  They have invited us to sing at the Lido in support of a special celebratory event planned there for June 3rd.

The Lido's website describes how well the Lido has been refurbished through the enthusiastic support of the volunteers, and there will be an exhibition of this on display at the Lido.

We will be performing 2 sets, either side of lunchtime, on the greensward at the Lido - so hoping for a beautiful day!  

(As soon as confirmed, our exact singing times will appear in the event listing on the Diary page of this Blog.)

Springtime Update

All three of our local singing groups are now up and running again and meeting regularly for their monthly 'Sings'.  Chichester and Lewes groups are back in their respective pub settings and Worthing group continues to meet at The Barn (for now still on the 2nd Wednesday of each month).  Please refer to the "Welcome" and "Local Group News" pages on this Blog for more details.

We also have a programme of public events to sing at and look forward to through the coming year - starting with the "Chichester Canal 200th Anniversary Celebration" on Saturday April 9th.  (We'll be singing at the canal basin cafe at 12.30pm).

The following week-end we’ll be at Firle House, in East Sussex for the Garden Fayre there on Sunday April 17th. (Singing late morning and again in the afternoon, times tbc).  Then May Day (May 1st) sees and hears us in East Sussex again, at the "Big Opening Event" at Oldland Mill near Keymer.

Other events follow these in May through to November, and details will be available on our Diary and News Pages as soon as confirmed.  

We look forward to seeing you at any of our open house local group sessions, and we hope you'll enjoy the events where we'll be singing too.  If new to us and wanting to join one of our local groups to sing with us - just let us know by reply to the SDFS email (southdownsfolksingers21@gmail.com) and you’ll be made very welcome!  

Local Group Report - Chichester - Thursday March 17th 2022

Numbers at the March session were slightly reduced thanks to our friend COVID.  However 11 of us made it.  In honour of the date Alan led us in a rendition of Galway Bay and some even downed the national black liquor.  We concentrated on the songs for performance at the coming Chichester Canal fest (on Saturday April 9th) and ended with Dave Webber's "Parting Song" which is proving a popular alternative to those  inexplicably tiring of John Tams' "Rolling Home".

A Song from Ukraine

This link has been sent by Alan for you to hear a most beautiful rendering of the Ukrainian National Anthem

Link