Irish, Scottish and American Music and Dance
THE "OTHER" CELTIC MUSICS
When many folks hear the term “Celtic music,” they think of Ireland and Scotland. But there are a number of other regions that have long celebrated their own unique Celtic music, language and culture. Brittany, Wales, Cornwall, Galicia, and the Isle of Man are all Celtic cousins of Scotland and Ireland, each with distinct, compelling music.
WALES
Wales is known for the triple harp and Welsh language songs, most famously sung by choirs with intricate harmonies. And, of course, Deck the Hall! The beautiful choral tradition was born of older folk singing. Here is one of the most famous songs: Suo Gan, sung by Welsh singer Abigail Lapel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdvz2eK87Gc
And I'll play it here in G:
ISLE OF MAN
Isle of Man is a tiny nation halfway between England and Ireland in the middle of the Irish Sea. Manx culture, language and music have seen quite a resurgence recently, with many young folks carrying on the traditions, focusing on songs and fiddle. Isle of Man also carries forward a thriving harp tradition.
Here's Manx fiddler Isla Callister playing the melody to the song “Baase Illiam Dhone”: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXv_J35shFb/ (Be sure to turn on the sound!).
I don't know if you're able to move the Instagram clip back or forward, so I've recorded it here (any discrepancies with my playing of it, of course, we'll defer to Callister's playing!)
And The Fairy reel - A Manx/Scottish/Irish/American tune:
Here's Bella Issakova, Kelly Stewart and I playing it in a set with The Rolling waves (jig).
BRITTANY
Brittany is the Celtic part of France, with its own distinct language, music and dance. It has seen a cultural renaissance over the past 75 years.
I was about 20 when I got hold of the Alan Stivell record E Langonned. It was a revelation for me. If I were to have to decide what my favorite music was, I'd be hard-pressed not to say Breton!
Here's a link to a recording of three Breton gavottes by Kevin Burke and Micheal O'Domhnaill from their excellent album Portland (1982). As with most Breton dance tunes, as far as I know, there are no names attached. Though there's a plethora of great recordings from native Breton musicians, this particular one has stuck with me.
Listen and enjoy. We'll learn the first tune, and maybe the second, in class.