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Roud Folk Song Index
Steve Roud’s Folk Song Index brings together references to English-language traditional songs from many sources and places. It is hosted by the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library at the English Folk Dance and Song Society.
Roud numbers group versions despite changing titles. An individual catalogue record documents a source or occurrence; it is distinct from the shared song number.
Song numbers and source records
These distinctions support the later study of narrative songs and ballads.
| Reference | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Roud number | The song-level reference used to gather versions, including those circulating under different titles. |
| Source record | A particular indexed item can document a singer, collector, place, date and printed or recorded source. |
| Related Roud indexes | The Broadside Index covers cheap print and early recordings; the Bibliography/Discography describes the sources supporting the indexes. |
Using this reference
When cross-linking later, retain both the Roud number and the specific record or source citation. Verify a match through the song evidence rather than the title alone.
Child and Roud references describe different catalogues. Preserve both when documented, and avoid treating either number as a prose tale-type identifier.
Each heading has a stable link for citation and future cross-referencing. Narrative associations will follow later analysis.
Sources and further reading
Roud, Steve, compiler. Roud Folk Song Index, Broadside Index and Bibliography/Discography. Vaughan Williams Memorial Library, English Folk Dance and Song Society. Online reference; record the access date when citing an entry.
- EFDSS / Vaughan Williams Memorial Library: Roud indexes help and search guidance
- Vaughan Williams Memorial Library: search the catalogues and indexes
The explanations are concise editorial summaries. Published identifiers are distinguished from this page’s reference headings and suggested recording practices.
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