Publication Date

1967

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Fred, Bernhart G., 1914-1986||Tipton, Eleanor L.

Degree Name

M. Mus. (Master of Music)

Legacy Department

Department of Music

LCSH

Folk music--Illinois--History and criticism

Abstract

The materials contained herein have been compiled to provide something functional for the teacher of music to use in cultural reinforcement. The information is limited to the state of Illinois. The text and music included can bring imaginative vision to illuminate the history of Illinois and is designed to be used with eighth grade classes in conjunction with their required study of the history and government of this state. The introductory section describes the background of Indian civilizations in residence here before the white man came to this territory. The important events which led to their destruction and the resultant effect of Indian culture on the music of today is related. No Indian music has been included. In Chapter I the narrative is continued with the French projects and interrelations among the Indians. The French trappers, traders, priests, and explorers expanded our knowledge of the area. Songs are included on these topics. Another early immigrant, the Irish, made significant contributions. These groups are discussed and samples of their music are presented as it was known in Illinois. The succeeding Chapter II, "Rule Britannia" extends through the period of time during English rule and settlement. Since our greatest number of immigrants were English speaking peoples, their effect upon folk music in this country is of major significance. Many samples of this type and their variant forms are included. The power of English folk song has never diminished. Related text is included on how the songs are used in the twentieth century. France and Britain failed to establish permanent colonies, however, and in Chapter III the "Americans Advance" is presented. Differing opinions and attitudes on all sides are readily evident in the musical selections. Chapter IV contains ideas about how two major historical acts relate to the resultant music produced by them. Thus the westward expansion and the Civil War were responsible for a large portion of music of this era. Although the greatest influx of Europeans was generally over by 1370 the westward movement continued. For example, certain folk songs relate to settling in Illinois and are found in this section; songs of Illinoisans who fought in defense of the Union are found here. Many leaders before and after the Civil war were from Illinois; Lincoln campaign songs are included in this portion. Rudimentary forms of government are discussed in these early stages of the area. The changing scenes in Illinois are clear as some early towns fade from view and newer sites are developed in the text. The final chapter presents folk characters of Illinois and their ballads. Some are known throughout many states and some are known only to those people, long dead, who were directly involved. Many songs known in Illinois are not included. Those that are presented offer an insight into the values, attitudes, beliefs, and objectives of those early people who came here to find a home and stayed to found a state.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references.

Extent

vi, 194 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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