Mus 011: Musics in Irish

Types of Trad

Sean Nós and English Language Ballads and Airs

Sean Nós

“Old style” in Irish Gaelic

Airs

Instrumental slow tunes based of a song melody that are Non-rhythmic; musical ornamentation 

Jigs

Triple Meter, Common Dance Rhythm in Irish Traditional Music; typically danced solo

Slide

lively Irish step dance tune distinguished by its triple meter rhythm, similar to a jig, but typically danced in groups

Reel

most popular Irish dance rhythm; relatively fast; gives music energetic character

Hornpipe

common Irish dance rhythm; closely identified with traditional English music and dance; duple meter performed at a medium-fast tempo with an underlying triple subdivision of the beat

Polkas (duple)  and Waltzes (triple)

Irish music forms distinguished by an upbeat, energetic tune (polka), and a slow and sentimental tune (waltz)

Seamus Ennis

one of the great uilleann pipers of the 20th century, and an important figure in the preservation, cultivation, and dissemination of Irish traditional music; “The First House in Connaught/The Copper Plate Reel” (medley)

Sean Ó Riada

key figure in the transformation and modernization of Irish music; organized the ensemble Ceoltóiri Chualann and invented a fresh, neo-traditional Irish music

Ceoltóiri Chualann

musical ensemble that combined old-fashioned Irish solo instrumental traditions and playing styles with sophisticated arranging techniques; instrumental lineup of uilleann pipes, two fiddles, tin whistle, button box accordion, and bodhrán

The Chieftains

the most widely influential and internationally renowned Irish traditional music group that emerged out of Ceoltóiri Chualann; known for boundary-blurring musical adventurers with collaborative projects with everyone

Riverdance

international theatrical production as a modern revival of Irish dancing

Irish Fusion

 blending of Irish traditional, Irish neo-traditional, jazz, pop, and diverse global influences to create a unique approach and sound; pioneered by Eileen Ivers

Celtic Rock

The Fusion of Trad Music of Scotland or Ireland with rock music; includes both sets of instruments. Ie) sinead o’connor, the cranberries, The Dubliners