This weird fact may change your view of classical music

May 26, 2024 Alan Cross 0 Comments 0 min read

I enjoy a little etymology every once in a while. What’s the origin of this word? Why do we use it as we do? Why is it spelled that way. I know. It’s a quirk.

This weekend, I discovered something new about composing classical music–or at least songs in Olde England.

The word “dildo” arose in 16th Century England, and for decades was used as a filler word in songs, much like “la dee dah” is used today. The result is a couple of old English tunes for lute and countertenor that use the word “dildo” extensively, like this one by Thomas Morley. pic.twitter.com/epA45GXj6B
— Robert Komaniecki (@Komaniecki_R) May 24, 2024

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 40208 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross