The original lyrics to Simple Gifts are nothing like those posted 'T is the gift to be simple "t is the gift to be free "t is the gift to come down where we ought to be And when we find ourselves in the place just right 'T will be in the valley of love and delight When true simplicity is gained To bow and to bend we sh'ant be ashamed To turn, turn will be our delight Till by turning , turning, we come 'round right The Shakers were a religious sect in the early 19th century who received inspiration by singing and dancing. This particular song was "received" by Brother John Brackett who lived at the Shaker village in Alfred Maine circa 1840. It was transcribed and the transcription was found by the compsr Aaron Copland who used it as his theme for "Appalachian Spring" (Which by the way has to do with a water source, not the season) The melody became famous and was subsequently given new lyrics by English songwriter Sydney Carter in "Lord of the Dance" which in turn was used by Irish entertainer Michael Flatley in his dance extravaganza of the same name. Apparently someone else has tried their hand at making Christmas lyrics for this classic tune best- Julia
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