Rudingtune

Rudingtune is a traditional English folk song that dates back to the medieval period, likely originating in the 14th or 15th century. The song is one of the earliest known examples of English secular music preserved in written form, appearing in the *Rudiment of Music* manuscript, a collection of musical treatises and songs compiled around 1440. The manuscript was created by John Whitehurst, a monk at the Benedictine monastery of St. Albans in Hertfordshire, England.

The lyrics of Rudingtune are simple and repetitive, focusing on a pastoral theme. The song describes a shepherd named Ruding, who is said to have been a skilled musician and composer. The text suggests that Ruding was a wandering minstrel who played his lute and sang of love and nature. The melody is also straightforward, characterized by its modal structure and use of medieval notation.

Rudingtune is notable for its historical significance as one of the earliest surviving examples of English vernacular music. Unlike many religious compositions of the time, it represents secular, folk-inspired music, providing insight into the musical culture of medieval England. The song has been studied by musicologists for its linguistic and musical features, including its use of early English dialect and its melodic style.

Over the centuries, Rudingtune has been reconstructed and performed by modern musicians and ensembles specializing in early music. Its revival has contributed to a greater understanding of medieval musical practices and the role of folk traditions in medieval England. While the original performance practices are not fully known, reconstructions often emphasize the song’s rustic charm and its connection to the pastoral life of the period.