The book opens with a thorough analysis of harps and harpers as they appear in the literature, providing insight into the role of the instrument in Medieval society. This is followed by musical selections from Chaucer and Chaucer's age arranged for voice and non-pedal harp. The songs in this collection are primarily the simple kinds of folk songs Chaucer mentions and gives his characters to sing in his stories, in contrast to the aristocratic French style of the day. Lyrics for these 13th and 14th century songs are in Latin and Middle English with generous translations.
Thorough notes explain the origin of each song.
The companion CD features 17 of the 21 songs in the book. Inc. All Rights Reserved.