Singing the English: Britain in the French Musical Lowbrow, 1870-1904

Singing the English explores the cultural history of music and Franco-British cultural history from the Franco-Prussian War to the Entente Cordiale, focusing on the Parisian café-concert, Salvation Army bands, folk music, travel writing, nineteenth-century ethnological concepts, and racialist discourse.

Format: Hardback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Singing the English: A Cultural History of Music and Franco-British Relations

This comprehensive research monograph delves into a captivating period spanning from the Franco-Prussian War in 1870 to the Entente Cordiale in 1904, offering a unique perspective through the lenses of cultural history and Franco-British relations. With its extensive coverage, this work is bound to captivate scholarly readers with an interest in European cultural history and popular music history, particularly those who seek to explore the Parisian café-concert, Salvation Army bands, folk music, travel writing, nineteenth-century ethnological concepts, racialist discourse, and cross-Channel cultural exchanges.

The Franco-Prussian War of 1870 marked a significant turning point in European history, leading to the unification of Germany under the leadership of Otto von Bismarck. This war not only shaped the political landscape but also had a profound impact on the cultural landscape, particularly in France. The aftermath of the war saw the rise of nationalist movements, which sought to promote the cultural and linguistic distinctiveness of various regions within France. This period also witnessed the emergence of new forms of music, such as the café-concert, which became popular in Paris and featured artists who performed popular songs and ballads.

The café-concert played a crucial role in shaping the cultural identity of France during this period. It was a place where artists could showcase their talents and connect with a diverse audience, including both upper-class and working-class individuals. The café-concert was characterized by its intimate atmosphere, where artists performed close to the audience, often accompanied by a pianist or a small ensemble. The music played at the café-concert was a mix of popular songs, ballads, and operatic arias, reflecting the diverse tastes of the audience.

One of the most notable figures associated with the café-concert was Georges Bizet, who composed the famous opera Carmen in 1875. Bizet's opera was a sensation at the time and helped to establish the café-concert as a popular form of entertainment. The café-concert also played a significant role in promoting the works of other French composers, such as Franz Liszt and Camille Saint-Saëns.

In addition to the café-concert, the Salvation Army bands also emerged as a prominent feature of French cultural life during this period. The Salvation Army was a religious organization that aimed to spread the Gospel and provide humanitarian aid to the poor and marginalized. The bands played a crucial role in promoting the Salvation Army's message and providing entertainment to the people they served. The Salvation Army bands were known for their lively performances and their ability to captivate audiences of all ages.

The Salvation Army bands played a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of France during this period. They were a symbol of social justice and compassion, and their music was a source of inspiration and hope for many people. The bands were also a source of employment for many musicians, particularly during times of economic hardship.

Another important aspect of French cultural life during this period was folk music. Folk music was a genre that emerged from the traditions and customs of various regions within France. It was characterized by its simple melodies and lyrics, which often reflected the struggles and hardships of the working class. Folk music was a popular form of entertainment during this period, particularly in rural areas.

One of the most notable figures associated with folk music was Jean-Jacques Rouseau, who was a philosopher and composer who wrote about the importance of preserving the traditions and customs of rural France. Rouseau's work inspired many musicians to explore the rich traditions of folk music and to incorporate them into their compositions.

Travel writing also played a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of France during this period. Travel writers such as Gustave Flaubert and Charles Baudelaire traveled extensively throughout France and wrote about their experiences in their books. These books provided a window into the lives of the people they encountered and helped to promote the idea of France as a place of beauty and culture.

In conclusion, the period from the Franco-Prussian War in 1870 to the Entente Cordiale in 1904 was a time of significant cultural and political change in France. The café-concert, Salvation Army bands, folk music, travel writing, nineteenth-century ethnological concepts, racialist discourse, and cross-Channel cultural exchanges all played a crucial role in shaping the cultural identity of France during this period. This research monograph offers a comprehensive exploration of these topics, providing a valuable insight into the rich and complex history of French culture.

Weight: 524g
Dimension: 160 x 242 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367416126