Pronunciation: [sˈɛsə͡l ʃˈɑːp] (IPA) 
Cecil Sharp was an English folk music collector and a key figure in the early 20th century revival of English traditional music. The spelling of his name is /ˈsɛsəl ʃɑːrp/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first name is spelled with a "c," as in "cat," followed by an "e" pronounced like the "e" in "bet." The last name is pronounced with a "sh" sound followed by an "a" pronounced like the "a" in "father," and a rolled "r."
Cecil Sharp was an English folk music collector, educationist, and musician. He is renowned for his influential role in preserving and documenting traditional British folk songs and dances during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Born on November 22, 1859, in London, Sharp developed a deep passion for folk music from an early age. He embarked on numerous expeditions across England to rural communities, where he meticulously recorded and transcribed thousands of songs and dance melodies. His dedication to preserving the disappearing folk traditions of Britain greatly contributed to the revival of interest in folk music during the early 20th century.
Sharp's tireless efforts in the field of ethnomusicology led to the establishment of the English Folk Dance and Song Society in 1911, with the goal of promoting the study and enjoyment of folk songs and dances. He also co-founded the Society for the Promotion of National Music, emphasizing the significance of preserving and appreciating music that is deeply rooted in a nation's cultural heritage.
Furthermore, Cecil Sharp's influence extended beyond his meticulous research and documentation. He played an active role in teaching and spreading traditional folk dances throughout Britain and the United States, where he visited on various lecture tours. Sharp's legacy left an indelible mark on the preservation of British folk music and dance, ensuring that future generations could discover and appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of these traditions.
The term "Cecil Sharp" does not have an independent etymology as it is a proper name. The name "Cecil" is of English origin and is derived from the Welsh name "Seisyllt" or "Sitsyllt". It eventually made its way into English through Norman French. The surname "Sharp" is an English surname referring to someone who was skilled or keen, deriving from the Old English word "scearp".
However, it is worth mentioning that Cecil James Sharp, the person behind this name, was an English folk music collector, composer, and scholar. He was born in 1859 and made significant contributions towards preserving and popularizing British folk music, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
