‘Kentucky Wassail’ (downloadable PDF)

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A lesser known American carol purportedly collected by John Jacob Niles, and closely linked to the Somerset Wassail from England. Please see further below for more information and an audio sample.

Description

A lesser known American carol purportedly collected by John Jacob Niles, and closely linked to the Somerset Wassail (a.k.a. ‘Wassail! O Wassail All Over the Town!’) from England. The first verse of the English lyrics are included, as well as chord symbols for accompanists. Both the melody and harmony part feature offbeat grace-notes that imitate Appalachian fiddling styles. This version was sourced from The Christmas Revels Songbook and is set in the pipe-friendly key of D-Major.

‘Kentucky Wassail’ and ‘The Somerset Wassail’ are two of over 100 carols printed in the collection, On This Day Earth Shall Ring.

An audio sample, featuring Scottish smallpipes (A-chanter). The harmony part can be heard on the repeat, approximately halfway through the track: