William Chappell's Historical Hit Parade

Abstract

William Chappell, pioneer historian of English popular music, researched and published vernacular songs from the late Middle Ages to 18th Century. Based on his recently published book, "Victorian Songhunters", Dr. David Gregory, AU Associate Professor, History and Humanities, will discuss how Chappell's work was particularly important because of the tunes he recovered as well as song-texts. This informative and entertaining presentation includes a vocal performance by Rosaleen Gregory, demonstrating why the best 'old' songs should never be forgotten and why Victorian intellectuals are worth studying!