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Music of the People Music of the People

Graphics by Ezekiel Gregory

Folk music, much like folk tales, was passed down orally through generations of families.

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This genre encorporates others like blues, early country and bluegrass, and protest songs.

“Folk” originated from the German word “volk” which means “of the people.”

It focuses on acoustic instruments such as banjo, guitar, pipes, mandolin, harmonica, and violin.

Origins

The origins of folk music can be traced back to western Europe and the Americas.

1700’s There was a folk song writing tradition in the 18th century among the working class.

1800’s In the 19th century, folk music and art music began merging into a single genre.

1900’s Folk music became part of the recording industry in the early to mid 20th century.

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