Bonny Christchurch Bells
Oxford Ramble track 12
Performed as both a sung catch, and as a dance tune. The round was, like Great Tom is cast, composed by Dean Aldrich of Christ Church. The tune is taken from Playford, where it first appeared in the 6th edition of 1679.
The tune was also used for a number of ballads, and in ballad operas including William Gay's Polly. It is also included in John Clare's manuscripts.
Preceded on the CD by Great Tom is cast and Old Tom of Oxford