Headington Quarry dancers mark death of Cecil Sharp

The celebratory event took place on June 23 at Headington Quarry where Mr Sharp first witnessed traditional Morris dancing, 100 years to the day since he died.

More than 80 people attended and there were performances at the Mason's Arms in Headington and the laying of a wreath on folk musician and dancer William Kimber's grave at Holy Trinity Church graveyard.

Celebrations to mark 100 years since the death of Cecil Sharp (Image: Headington Quarry Morris Dancers)

Mr Kimber's great great grandson, Chris Kimber-Nickelson, danced a jig in tribute, while Andy Turner played Mr Kimber’s concertina.

Cecil Sharp's considerable influence on English folk music and dance was noted during the day through a series of talks.

There were talks from David Sutcliffe, the author of a recent biography on Mr Sharp, Brian Peters, who discussed Mr Sharp's song collecting, Michael Heaney, who examined the state of Headington Quarry in 1899, and Keith Chandler, who recounted memories of Morris dancing.

Celebrations to mark 100 years since the death of Cecil Sharp (Image: Headington Quarry Morris Dancers)

Mr Sharp's enthusiasm and use of the media of the time ensured a strong public profile for the music and dance, influencing composers such as Holst, Finzi and Vaughan Williams.

His efforts helped to inspire and influence folk revivals across the globe, from the USA to Scotland to Ireland.

Without Mr Sharp and his work the present-day folk revival, if it existed at all, would be very different.