Arne, Thomas Augustine. (1710-1778)
Rule Britannia.
London: Publisher unknown.. [c. 1760]. 1 page. Engraved, no PN. Torn portions at 3 sides, rebacked to page baring an 1810 watermark. A rare early edition of the popular British national air from the English composer, the most significant figure in 18th-century English theatre music.The earliest separate printing of the song was about 1755. (BUC p. 41) Fuld notes that "in the original 1740 and 1741 versions, the text reads 'rule' the waves; later, 'rule' was sometimes changed to 'rules' with a different meaning." (Fuld, p. 477). The present printing uses the original "rule." (1798)
Printed Music Song