• History -> Middle Ages and Feudalism

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Can we draw similarities between medieval music and folk music in any way?

Herschel Whitesel

Definitely! There are definitely similarities between medieval music and folk music. For starters, both types of music originated from the people, rather than being created by trained musicians or composers. Medieval music was created and performed by peasants and troubadours, while folk music has its roots in the music of rural communities and various ethnic groups.

Both styles also have a strong emphasis on melody, rather than harmony, as vocal music was a central part of both traditions. Lyrics were also an important aspect of both medieval and folk music, with songs often telling stories or conveying important messages through poetic language.

In terms of instrumentation, there are also similarities between the two styles. Medieval music relied heavily on various forms of lutes and harps, as well as percussion instruments such as drums and tambourines. Similarly, folk music often relies heavily on stringed instruments such as guitars, fiddles, and banjos, as well as various types of percussion instruments.

Interestingly, both types of music have had a significant impact on the development of other genres. Medieval music, for example, has influenced classical music as we know it today, while folk music has played a role in the development of country, blues, and rock music.

Of course, there are also many differences between medieval and folk music. For example, medieval music tended to be more structured and formal than folk music, which often features improvisation and a looser, more casual style. Additionally, medieval music often had strong ties to the church, with many songs being religious in nature, while folk music tends to be more secular in nature.

Overall, while there are certainly differences between medieval and folk music, there are also many similarities. Both styles have their roots in the people and rely heavily on melody and lyrics, and have had a lasting impact on the development of music as we know it today.