Hark! The Herald Banjo Rings
Christmas 2010
December 10
In the southern Appalachians, the tradition of celebrating the time between Christmas and Epiphany with house parties, dancing, and music, is called "Breaking Up Christmas"; this song commemorates that tradition. Probably descended from wassailing and mumming traditions in England, it was supported by the strong folk music tradition of the area, in particular the Round Peak area near Mount Airy, North Carolina. Though the tradition has waned, some people in the area still celebrate it. I recorded this on the banjo in the key of A.
Downloads: mp3
Breaking Up Christmas
Performed by Greg Barlow on banjo
Music: Traditional North Carolina fiddle tune