Famous German folk song | That Japanese tune was actually a German folk song?!
There are many kinds of folk songs around the world, but German folk songs are particularly famous for being catchy.
I think many people imagine folk music as something traditional and strict.
However, German folk songs don’t have that kind of atmosphere at all.
That’s because many well-known German folk songs are actually familiar in Japan as children’s songs.
You’ll probably find yourself thinking, “Wait, this was a German folk song?!”
Now then, please take your time and enjoy German folk music!
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Famous German Folk Songs | That Well-Known Japanese Tune Was Actually a German Folk Song!? (11–20)
Schöne MinkaL’Amoroso
The classic song “Schöne Minka” has been beloved in Germany for many years.
While it’s often presented as a German folk song, strictly speaking it’s a Ukrainian folk song that is said to have become a major hit within Germany around the 19th century—a phenomenon characteristic of Europe, where borders have frequently shifted.
Still, because it dates back to the 19th century and has such a long history, it has come to be regarded in Germany much like a folk song.
The melody conveys a sense of sorrow and has a weighty atmosphere.
If you enjoy dark operas, be sure to check it out.
Wenn der weisse Flieder wieder bluhtPaul Godwin
The German folk song “Wenn der weisse Flieder wieder blüht,” so famous that there is even a film of the same title, is actually not a work that originated in Germany.
It was originally composed by the Austrian musician Franz Doelle.
The song was later brought into neighboring Germany, where it became a major hit, and today it seems to be recognized as part of Germany’s traditional musical repertoire.
While the piece overflows with the musical character of the Bavarian region, its melody is essentially crafted as a popular song close to traditional jazz.
Die VogelhochzeitNena
The German folk song “Die Vogelhochzeit,” which has been beloved since around the 16th century, boasts a very long history.
It is also well known in Japan, where it has been covered under the title “Kotori no Kekkonshiki” (The Little Birds’ Wedding).
Some people may recognize it from its use on NHK’s popular program “Minna no Uta.” As the title suggests, it’s a song about a wedding, with fairy-tale lyrics in which sparrows bring the wedding rings.
The melody perfectly matches the lyrics with a charming, cute atmosphere, making it especially recommended for women and children.
O, du lieber AugustinWill Glahe
The famous piece “O, du lieber Augustin,” composed in 1679 by Austrian composer Marx Augustin, is a popular work of classic Austrian music.
It is also extremely popular in neighboring Germany, making it a rare piece that is cherished as a folk song in both countries.
Unlike other German folk songs, its appeal lies in its calm atmosphere; although the melody is cheerful, the slower tempo makes it relaxing to listen to.
Der KuckucksjodlerZillertaler Mander
When people think of yodeling, many strongly associate it with Swiss or Alpine music.
However, that’s not entirely the case—yodeling is also rooted in Bavaria.
German yodeling has developed in a distinctive way, using yodels much like jazz scat.
The popular German folk song Der Kuckucksjodler exemplifies these characteristics, making it an ideal piece for enjoying yodeling.
In conclusion
This time we introduced German folk songs, and as I mentioned at the beginning, many of them are also well-loved as children’s songs in Japan.
Personally, I was surprised to learn that children’s songs like “Butterfly,” “Buzz, Buzz, Buzz,” and “The Frog Chorus” are actually German folk songs.
At Ragu Music, we also introduce folk songs from various other countries in addition to German ones.
If you’re interested, be sure to check it out!