Music used for dancing in early Colonial America was not written in the colonies, but had its origins in the ancient reels and ballads of England, Ireland and Scotland. Many people who knew the old tunes would write new lyrics to them, thus the same tune could have many different uses. The music that you will hear and dance to at the Holiday Vintage Ball is accurate to the Colonial time period and has different origins.
These are a few examples of the many songs you will hear:
'Greensleeves' was a popular song written by King Henry VIII in sixteenth century England. This tune is also known as 'What Child is This,' a familiar Christmas carol.
'Planxty Irwin' originated in medieval Ireland. It is a waltz most likely named for its composer ('Planxty' is another word for a Waltz tune).
'Lucy Locket' is a tune that is believed to have originated in England around 1750. This tune is known to Americans as 'Yankee Doodle.'
Holiday Vintage Ball Band
Those who attend the Holiday Vintage Ball will dance to music called by Scott Sarver (pictured above) and played and sung by the Mackenzie family band. Their band website is http://www.mckenziemusic.com/home.html.
