Folksong

English Country Garden, or Country Gardens as it was more commonly known prior to the 20th century, is a tune that Cecil Sharp found in southwestern English villages. It was a popular song in the Morris dance tradition, dating to the 1700s.

The tune most recognized today was written by Percy Grainger, an Australian-born composer who enlisted in the U.S. Army at the outbreak of World War I. The song was widely popular; however, it became somewhat of an albatross to him. He is said to have remarked once, “The typical English country garden is not often used to grow flowers in; it is more likely to be a vegetable plot. So you can think of turnips as I play it.”

The Muppets performed a rollicking version of it.

Whether you think of turnips or tall hollyhocks, we think you’ll enjoy singing English Country Garden with us at the 2026 CMER.

My family will be together for the holidays. We will enjoy talking about good meals, board games, family vacations, and folksongs; just a few shared memories that knit us together as a family.

In a few short weeks, attendees from eleven states will gather at The Hideaway for CMER 2025. Nearly a third are new to the retreat. We will sing a folksong. It is our prayer that this time of singing together, laughing, and learning a new song or recalling an old favorite, will be the first of many shared memories that we will forge over the weekend.

Do you want a sneak peek? Name that tune in five words: “Well now, take down your…”

We are looking forward to singing with you!