Tuesday 28 November 2017
Tune of the Day: Old King Cole
arranged for three flutes
“Old King Cole” is a British nursery rhyme first attested in 1708. There has been much speculation about the identity of King Cole, but it is unlikely that he can be identified reliably as any historical figure. The lyrics of the song describe a merry king who called for his pipe (which could be a musical instrument or a tobacco pipe), bowl (drinking cup), and musicians, with the details varying among versions.
The present arrangement for three flutes is taken from Blake's Young Flutist's Magazine, published in 1833.