Origin: Traditional English ballad (Medieval)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Notes Used: D, E, F#, G, A, B, C (high), D (high)
Time Signature: 3/4
Key: D Dorian (modal)
A hauntingly beautiful English ballad popularized by Simon & Garfunkel in the 1960s. The melody dates back to Medieval times.
Lyrics (Chorus):
Are you going to Scarborough Fair?
Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme.
Remember me to one who lives there,
She once was a true love of mine.
Practice the distinctive opening with dotted rhythm.
Master the smooth ascending pattern.
Practice reaching up to high D smoothly.
Practice the D Dorian scale pattern used in this song.
Put together the first section.
Scarborough Fair is a traditional English ballad that dates back to Medieval times, with the earliest known version from around 1670. The song refers to the Scarborough Fair, a large trading event held in the town of Scarborough, North Yorkshire, from Medieval times through the 17th century. The ballad tells of impossible tasks ("Tell her to make me a cambric shirt, without no seams nor needlework") that represent the difficulty of reconciliation between separated lovers. The melody uses the Dorian mode, common in Medieval and folk music, which gives it its distinctive ancient sound. Simon & Garfunkel's 1966 version brought the song to worldwide attention, introducing it to a new generation.
Once you can play Scarborough Fair confidently, try: