TTM Preface

The Tea-Table Miscellany: or, a Complete Collection of Scots Sangs [v. I] (Dublin: E. Smith, 1729)

Altho’ it be acknowledged, that our Scots Tunes have not lengthened Variety of Musick, yet they have an agreeable Gaiety and natural Sweetness, that make them acceptable whenever they are known, not only among our selves, but in other Countries. They are for the most part so chearful, that on hearing them well play’d or sung, we find a Difficulty to keep out selves from dancing. What further adds to the Esteem we have for them, is, their Antiquity, and their being universally known. Mankind's Love for Novelty would appear to contradict this Reason; but will not, when we consider, that for one that can tolerably entertain with Vocal or Instrumental Musick, there are fifty that content themselves with the Pleasure of Hearing, and Singing without the Trouble of being taught: Now, such are not Judges of the fine Flourishes of new Musick imported from Italy and elsewhere, yet will listen with Pleasure to Tunes that they know, and can join with in the Chorus. Say that our Way is only an harmonious speaking of merry, witty or soft Thoughts, after the Poet has dress’d them in four or five Stanzas; yet undoubtedly these must relish best with People, who have not bestowed much of their Time in acquiring a Taste for that downright perfect Musick, which requires none, or very little of the Poet's Assistance.