Famous German Folk Songs | That familiar tune in Japan was actually a German folk song?!

Mein Vater war ein WandersmannNEW!Volkslied

[With Japanese Translation] When You Walk Merrily (German Folk Song) “Mein Vater war ein Wandersmann” [With Kana Reading]

This is a wandering song said to have first appeared as a poem in the German-speaking world in 1847.

Later, in 1953, a new melody was added, and thanks to music festivals in the UK and broadcasts by the BBC, it became a global choral hit.

It was also sung in a 1955 film and has since become widely beloved.

The joy of walking in nature rides on a bright melody, and the light, march-like rhythm and easy-to-remember choral calls are especially striking.

In Japan, it is cherished as a song for children to march along to energetically.

It’s a perfect tune for times when you feel like moving your body outdoors, such as on a hike.

SchwefelhölzleNEW!Volkslied

P283. The Hasty Song (children’s song) “Schwefelhölzle” Tremolo Harmonica by Yuko Yanagawa 1,000 Tremolo Mouth Organ

Among German folk songs, this piece is closely tied to everyday life.

Its title refers to an old tool for kindling fire, making a once-indispensable household item the star.

Rather than a dramatic progression, its charm lies in a light, sprightly melody that echoes the rhythms of daily life.

Included in a children’s song collection published in 1857, it has been widely loved and passed down in Japan as well.

With a familiar tone that conveys everyday warmth, it seems perfect for family time around the hearth.

Wenn der weisse Flieder wieder bluhtPaul Godwin

Donnerwetter! Tausend Frauen: Wenn der weisse Flieder wieder bluht

The German folk song “Wenn der weisse Flieder wieder blüht,” so famous that there is even a film of the same title, is actually not a work that originated in Germany.

It was originally composed by the Austrian musician Franz Doelle.

The song was later brought into neighboring Germany, where it became a major hit, and today it seems to be recognized as part of Germany’s traditional musical repertoire.

While the piece overflows with the musical character of the Bavarian region, its melody is essentially crafted as a popular song close to traditional jazz.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Die VogelhochzeitNena

Die Vogelhochzeit

The German folk song “Die Vogelhochzeit,” which has been beloved since around the 16th century, boasts a very long history.

It is also well known in Japan, where it has been covered under the title “Kotori no Kekkonshiki” (The Little Birds’ Wedding).

Some people may recognize it from its use on NHK’s popular program “Minna no Uta.” As the title suggests, it’s a song about a wedding, with fairy-tale lyrics in which sparrows bring the wedding rings.

The melody perfectly matches the lyrics with a charming, cute atmosphere, making it especially recommended for women and children.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

O, du lieber AugustinWill Glahe

O, du lieber Augustin

The famous piece “O, du lieber Augustin,” composed in 1679 by Austrian composer Marx Augustin, is a popular work of classic Austrian music.

It is also extremely popular in neighboring Germany, making it a rare piece that is cherished as a folk song in both countries.

Unlike other German folk songs, its appeal lies in its calm atmosphere; although the melody is cheerful, the slower tempo makes it relaxing to listen to.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Stein SongRudy Vallée

Stein Song (University of Maine)

The classic song “Stein Song,” which was also covered in Japan in the early Showa era.

In Japan, it’s familiar as a German folk song, but in fact it isn’t German folk at all—it’s a piece reimported from the United States.

That said, it’s also very popular in Germany, and today it’s a well-known pop song recognized by both children and adults.

With that in mind, we’ve picked it up this time.

Its Japanese title is “Kanpai no Uta” (Song of the Toast), and as the title suggests, it features a lively, cheerful melody.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Auf’m Tanzboden bei der Wirtin Zum SternFranzl Lang

Auf’m Tanzboden bei der Wirtin „Zum Stern”

German folk songs are not very popular in Japan.

Because of that, many people may have a rather vague image of what German folk music is like.

For those people, I recommend the song “Auf’m Tanzboden bei der Wirtin Zum Stern.” Several German folk songs are known in Japan as children’s songs, but this piece is different: it stands out for its more traditional, ethnic sound.

It even features yodel-like parts, so if you enjoy folk music, be sure to check it out.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem