Play School - Frère Jacques Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who originally wrote the lyrics to 'Frère Jacques'?

   'Frère Jacques' is a traditional French nursery rhyme. The lyrics are often attributed to Jean-Philippe Rameau, although this attribution is based on a manuscript found in the French National Library.

2. What is the English translation of 'Frère Jacques'?

   The English version of 'Frère Jacques' is known as 'Brother John'. It translates to: Brother John, Brother John, Are you sleeping? Are you sleeping? Morning bells are ringing! Morning bells are ringing! Ding, dang, dong. Ding, dang, dong.

3. When was 'Frère Jacques' first published?

   'Frère Jacques' was first published with its melody in 1811. The words and music together were published in Paris in 1869. An earlier publication from 1825 included the words with a description of the melody but not in musical notation.

4. What is the origin of the name 'Jacques' in 'Frère Jacques'?

   'Jacques' corresponds to the English names James or Jacob. It derives from Latin Iacobus and Greek Ἰακώβος (Septuagintal Greek Ἰακώβ), referring to Biblical Patriarch Jacob and apostles known as James.

5. Is there any historical connection between 'Frère Jacques' and real individuals?

   There have been claims that 'Frère Jacques' might be connected to Frère Jacques Beaulieu or used to mock Dominican friars (Jacobins). However, no substantial evidence supports these connections.

6. 'Has Frère Jacques been adapted into other cultures?

   Yes, for example, Barbara Mittler notes that it has been so assimilated into Chinese culture that it might be regarded as a Chinese folk song called ‘Two Tigers’.