This collection investigates the preservation and arrangement of traditional English folk melodies for the modern concert stage. Roger Quilter, a prominent British composer known for his lyrical vocal writing, curates a selection of traditional songs to demonstrate their enduring musical value. By applying sophisticated piano accompaniments to these simple airs, the work argues that folk music can be elevated to the level of art song while maintaining its original melodic integrity.

Musicians and vocalists frequently cite this collection as a standard reference for high-quality arrangements of traditional English repertoire. Experts highlight the technical elegance of Quilter's piano writing as a primary reason for the book's continued use in academic and performance settings.