Sea Chanties & the Pandemic

Sea Chanties & the Pandemic

I was the choral director at a high school in Birmingham, Michigan. The men always sang at the concerts and they almost always begged for a sea chanty, comedic song or folk tune. “Drunkin’ Sailor” was a favorite. When I think about how the guys bonded over these tunes, I am starting to realize why ‘Sea Chanties” have become so popular for guys on sites like TikTok.  They invoke the feeling of togetherness, being on the high seas or just being able to express themselves musically and with abandon come to mind.

Music brings people together and helps them feel a part of something larger than themselves. Comradery is missing during periods of isolation and singing with one’s “mates” no matter how off key or loud is freeing.

Hearing all of those male voices singing together and having fun is an experience that I miss. Of course, my guys sang in four-part harmony, totally on pitch and with proper diction. That part is missing from TikTok. Oh well.

By Laurie Beth Frick

Owner LBF Piano & Voice LLC Concert pianist/vocalist University of Michigan Former K-12 Music Supervisor in public education Choral director - theatre director

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