BRITISH MUSIC Take "Music" poll at bottom of page!
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As Anglophiles, we're fascinated by British music. In movies, we've seen "polite society" in ballrooms during Regency and Victorian times dancing quadrilles and waltzes--often to strains of Haydn or Mozart rather than to the music of native-born, British composers. But the "upper crust" embraced classical music, that we know. Then there's the wonderful traditional music. Whether it's Celtic (originating in Scotland or Northern Ireland), Welsh, or English, it's likely filled with fiddles and harps or bagpipes. The tunes may sound soulful, but frequently, they're so lively, they inspire us to sing along or dance a jig!
In modern times, especially, British music has rocked the world. The "British Invasion" provided the first salvo, with the likes of the Beatles, The Who, and the Rolling Stones. One historical moment later, the Punk scene arrived, firing the second salvo. The Sex Pistols, the Clash, the Jam, and Buzzcocks all lit up the radar. And I haven't even mentioned the HUGE British stars in mainstream pop: Sting, Elton John, Culture Club, Coldplay, Adele, etc., etc., etc. NOTE: To stay abreast of current popular British musicians--both established and up-and-coming--simply follow Brit Awards online. Brit Awards are the UK's version of the American music industry's Grammy Awards or American Music Awards. You can find the Brit Awards on Twitter and Facebook or even subscribe to their Youtube channel. BRIT AWARDS YouTube channel Top British Composers (Baroque, Classical, Romantic)
Top British Musicians & Bands (Modern)
Musicians and Bands Recommended by Anglophile United readers
Zella's Comment: One of my favorite venues for music in London is St. Martin in the Fields, at Trafalgar Square. St. Martin offers both inexpensive and free concerts throughout the year. You can stop by for Evensong, hear their Lunchtime Concerts series (typically choral, organ, or chamber music), or enjoy a Jazz Nights performance--offered this year on Wednesday nights. St. Martin's location is a godsend for tourists: It's in central London, near many top tourist destinations, so dropping by for a concert fits easily into a busy tourist schedule. (Stop by the church a day or more before attending a concert to buy a ticket.) And here's more good news about St. Martin: They have an amazing crypt in the lower level of the church with a restaurant, restrooms, and even a small art gallery. I'm gaga about the crypt--it's so atmospheric! If you're dead tired from traipsing around London and need a spot to nourish your body and soul, this is it.
ST. MARTIN IN THE FIELDS
NOTICE: The suggestion box, below, is temporarily closed. (On the plus side, the section is closed because of the fantastic response from you readers! I need to catch up, adding names to the list, before opening this section again. Thank you for understanding! And THANK YOU for reading Anglophiles United!)
Check out one of my favorite new band, TEMPLES. They formed five years ago and are very up-and-coming. To my ear, they have a '60's "British Invasion" sound.
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