When you consider the fact that Australia as a nation began as a colony of convicted felons, the fact that "Waltzing Matilda" is celebrating a criminal act is notable.
The line separating the felon from the felonious is often blurred, and when the pendulum swings from one to the other it can become a celebration - or a march.
Great to hear you sing and play.
I knew this was a protest song but had no clue as to why. That's really interesting and I will cross-post this as part of my protest song series.
That Ray Chen version is extraordinary. I had to send it to my friend who teaches violin. The arrangement is gorgeous.
Ellen, there’s no higher praise, and I’m glad you enjoyed my horrible recording. The subject is the purpose, being both heartwarming and tragic.
When you consider the fact that Australia as a nation began as a colony of convicted felons, the fact that "Waltzing Matilda" is celebrating a criminal act is notable.
The line separating the felon from the felonious is often blurred, and when the pendulum swings from one to the other it can become a celebration - or a march.
I certainly remember the song as a youngster. I certainly didn’t know the history. Thanks.
It's the strangest thing. Since performing it live for over a decade, your sentiment is shared with everyone from the time period.
Tell us how you came upon the song, and when.
Actually it was a song we learned and sang in our elementary school music class.
Yup.