About the Project

The Great War Songbook is Tom Carradine’s latest research-led project, exploring the music of the First World War and the role it played in sustaining morale, memory and humanity during one of the most turbulent periods in history. Drawing on original sheet music, archives and locations closely connected to the songs themselves, the project looks beyond the obvious anthems to uncover the humour, sentiment and everyday voices of the time.

The project will evolve into a live performance, recordings and wider educational content, sharing the stories behind the songs and the places where they were sung.

The Great War Songbook is about preserving songs, honouring stories and reconnecting with the music that helped a generation endure.

Tom Carradine is a performer, musical director and historian specialising in British Music Hall, community singing and the songs that shaped everyday life in the early 20th century. Known for his Cockney Sing-a-long shows, work with living history groups and performances at historic venues across the UK and beyond, Tom has spent over a decade bringing forgotten songs and stories back to life at the piano.

Email: tom@greatwarsongbook.co.uk