Merrily o'er the waves

Composer Austin Philips

Lyricist Reverend John Reynell Wreford (American, 1800 - 1881)

Publisher J F Atwill

Date1839

Object number00036379

NameSheet music

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsOverall: 332 x 256 mm, 0.04 kg

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

Description'Merrily o'er the waves' is a four page booklet of sheet music that was No. 1 in the 'Songs of the Sea' series. The cover features a black and white image of a vessel sailing in rough seas, surrounded by a border of crossed anchors, sea horses, Neptune's tridents and draped flags. It was printed in New York and composed for voice with piano.HistorySheet music offers an insight into popular culture and social values at the time of their production. The widely distributed pieces were sold fairly cheaply, making them popular purchases with the general public. Music was an integral part of people's social life in the home and at public events such as balls, recitals, concerts and theatre shows. The first stanzas of 'Merrily o'er the waves': Merrily o'er the waves I go, Far far away from shore; No music half so sweet I know As the noise of old oceans roar Significance'Merrily o'er the waves' highlights the popularity of maritime scenes and events in 19th century sheet music.