Sea Shanties-events in Zurich

Sea shanties originated in the 19th century as functional work songs performed by merchant sailors aboard large sailing vessels to synchronize heavy manual labor. These rhythmic compositions typically feature a call-and-response structure, utilizing a steady, driving pulse that mirrors the physical movements of hauling lines or heaving anchors. While primarily a cappella and vocal-centric, modern interpretations often incorporate folk instruments like the concertina, accordion, or fiddle to enhance the communal atmosphere. Categorically, shanties are a subset of maritime folk music, distinguished from recreational sea songs by their utilitarian purpose, which provided both essential timing for collective tasks and a psychological boost during long, arduous voyages.