lyrics for simple gifts
Simple Gifts is a Shaker song, first published in 1848. The song is a traditional folk song that has been passed down through generations.
- Shaker song
- Published in 1848
- Traditional folk song
- Passed down through generations
- Uplifting and inspiring lyrics
- Simple melody
- Covered by many artists
The song is known for its simple and uplifting lyrics, which express gratitude for the simple gifts in life.
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The lyrics for "Simple Gifts" were first published in 1848 in The Shaker Manifesto, a collection of Shaker songs and writings.
- Authorship
The lyrics were written by Joseph Brackett, a Shaker elder. - Publication
The song was first published in The Shaker Manifesto, a collection of Shaker songs and writings. - Shaker community
The Shakers were a religious group that lived in communal societies. They were known for their simple lifestyle and their emphasis on equality and peace. - Simple and uplifting lyrics
The lyrics for "Simple Gifts" are simple and uplifting, and they express gratitude for the simple gifts in life.
The song quickly became popular among the Shakers, and it has since been adopted by many other religious and secular groups.
Folk song
A folk song is a traditional song that is passed down through generations. Folk songs are typically simple in structure and melody, and they often tell stories or express the values of a particular community.
- Oral tradition
Folk songs are typically passed down through oral tradition, meaning that they are learned and sung by people without the use of written music. - Simple structure
Folk songs typically have a simple structure, with verses and choruses that are repeated. - Storytelling
Many folk songs tell stories, often about love, loss, or historical events. - Cultural values
Folk songs can also express the values of a particular community, such as their beliefs about religion, family, and work.
"Simple Gifts" is a folk song in the sense that it has been passed down through generations and has been adapted by many different communities. However, it is not a traditional folk song in the sense that it was not created anonymously or passed down through oral tradition.
Passed down through generations
"Simple Gifts" has been passed down through generations since it was first published in 1848. The song has been adopted by many different communities, including religious groups, folk singers, and even popular musicians.
- Shaker communities
"Simple Gifts" was originally sung by the Shakers, a religious group that lived in communal societies. The song was passed down from generation to generation within Shaker communities. - Folk revival movement
In the 1950s and 1960s, there was a folk revival movement in the United States. During this time, many folk songs, including "Simple Gifts," were rediscovered and popularized by folk singers such as Pete Seeger and Joan Baez. - Contemporary musicians
"Simple Gifts" has been recorded by many contemporary musicians, including Aaron Copland, John Denver, and the Indigo Girls. The song has also been used in film and television soundtracks.
Today, "Simple Gifts" is a well-known and beloved song that is sung by people all over the world.
Uplifting and inspiring lyrics
"Simple Gifts" is known for its simple and uplifting lyrics, which express gratitude for the simple gifts in life.
- Appreciation for nature
The lyrics of "Simple Gifts" express a deep appreciation for the beauty and bounty of nature. The song mentions the "fields," the "woods," and the "flowers," and it gives thanks for the "sun" and the "rain." - Gratitude for life's blessings
The lyrics of "Simple Gifts" also express gratitude for the simple blessings of life. The song mentions "true friends," "health," and "contentment," and it gives thanks for the "love" and "grace" that we receive. - Hope for the future
The lyrics of "Simple Gifts" conclude with a message of hope for the future. The song mentions "new frontiers" and "new friends," and it gives thanks for the "hope" and "joy" that we find in life. - Inspiration for others
The lyrics of "Simple Gifts" have inspired many people over the years. The song has been used in religious services, at peace rallies, and at other events where people come together to celebrate life and community.
The lyrics of "Simple Gifts" are a reminder that even in the simplest of things, we can find joy and inspiration.
Simple melody
"Simple Gifts" has a simple and memorable melody that is easy to sing and play. The song is in the key of G major, and it uses a simple chord progression of G, C, and D.
- Diatonic melody
The melody of "Simple Gifts" is diatonic, meaning that it uses only the notes of the G major scale. This makes the song easy to sing and play, even for beginners. - Repetition
The melody of "Simple Gifts" uses a lot of repetition. This repetition helps to make the song catchy and memorable. - Range
The melody of "Simple Gifts" has a narrow range, meaning that it doesn't require a large vocal range to sing. This makes the song accessible to singers of all levels. - Singable
The melody of "Simple Gifts" is singable, meaning that it is easy to sing in tune. This makes the song enjoyable to sing, both for soloists and choirs.
The simple melody of "Simple Gifts" is one of the reasons why the song has become so popular. The song is easy to sing and play, and it has a catchy and memorable melody that appeals to people of all ages.
Covered by many artists
"Simple Gifts" has been covered by many artists over the years, including folk singers, classical musicians, and even pop stars.
- Pete Seeger
Pete Seeger was one of the most influential folk singers of the 20th century. He recorded "Simple Gifts" on his album The Rainbow Quest in 1956. - Joan Baez
Joan Baez is a folk singer and activist who has recorded "Simple Gifts" on several of her albums, including Joan Baez in Concert, Part 2 (1963) and Diamonds & Rust (1975). - Aaron Copland
Aaron Copland was an American composer who wrote "Simple Gifts" for his ballet Appalachian Spring in 1944. The piece has become one of Copland's most popular works, and it is often performed by orchestras around the world. - John Denver
John Denver was a singer-songwriter who recorded "Simple Gifts" on his album Windstar in 1974. Denver's version of the song was a hit, and it helped to introduce "Simple Gifts" to a new generation of listeners.
These are just a few of the many artists who have covered "Simple Gifts." The song's simple melody and uplifting lyrics have made it a favorite of musicians and audiences alike.
### FAQHere are some frequently asked questions about "Simple Gifts":
Question 1: What is the origin of "Simple Gifts"?
Answer 1: "Simple Gifts" was written by Joseph Brackett, a Shaker elder, in 1848.
Question 2: What is the meaning of "Simple Gifts"?
Answer 2: "Simple Gifts" is a song about gratitude for the simple things in life, such as nature, friendship, and love.
Question 3: Who has covered "Simple Gifts"?
Answer 3: "Simple Gifts" has been covered by many artists, including Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, Aaron Copland, and John Denver.
Question 4: What is the tempo of "Simple Gifts"?
Answer 4: The tempo of "Simple Gifts" is typically around 72 beats per minute.
Question 5: What key is "Simple Gifts" in?
Answer 5: "Simple Gifts" is in the key of G major.
Question 6: What is the time signature of "Simple Gifts"?
Answer 6: "Simple Gifts" is in 4/4 time.
Question 7: What instruments are typically used to play "Simple Gifts"?
Answer 7: "Simple Gifts" can be played on a variety of instruments, including guitar, piano, and violin.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about "Simple Gifts." If you have any other questions, please feel free to search online or ask a music teacher or librarian.
Now that you know a little bit more about "Simple Gifts," here are a few tips for playing and singing the song:
### TipsHere are a few tips for playing and singing "Simple Gifts":
Tip 1: Start slowly
If you're a beginner, start by playing and singing "Simple Gifts" slowly. This will help you to get the hang of the melody and the chords.
Tip 2: Use a metronome
A metronome can help you to keep a steady tempo while you're playing and singing "Simple Gifts." This will help the song to sound more polished and professional.
Tip 3: Sing with expression
"Simple Gifts" is a song about gratitude, so it's important to sing it with expression. Try to convey the emotions of the lyrics in your voice.
Tip 4: Play with others
"Simple Gifts" is a great song to play with others. Try playing it with a friend or family member, or join a choir or folk group.
These are just a few tips to help you play and sing "Simple Gifts." With a little practice, you'll be able to master this beautiful and inspiring song.
Now that you know a little bit more about "Simple Gifts" and how to play and sing it, you can start enjoying this beautiful song for yourself.
### Conclusion "Simple Gifts" is a beautiful and inspiring song that has been passed down through generations. The song's simple melody and uplifting lyrics have made it a favorite of musicians and audiences alike. "Simple Gifts" is a reminder that even in the simplest of things, we can find joy and inspiration. The song encourages us to be grateful for the people and things in our lives, and to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a musician, a singer, or simply a lover of music, I encourage you to learn more about "Simple Gifts." The song is a valuable addition to any repertoire, and it is sure to bring joy to your life. In the words of the song: > 'Tis a gift to be simple, 'tis a gift to be free > 'Tis a gift to come down where we ought to be, > And when we find ourselves in the place just right, > 'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.