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Irish Music

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Irish Music

Music has always been important in Irish cultural life. One of the earliest Irish composers whose work has survived is Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738), known as 'The Blind Harpist', who was one of the last in the ancient Bardic tradition.

Eighteenth century Dublin attracted many composers and saw the first performance of Handel's Messiah in 1742. John Field (1782 -1837), creator of the 'Nocturne', influenced European composers such as Chopin and Glinka. In more recent times, composers A.J. Potter (1918 -1980) and Gerard Victory (1921 -1995) have been highly influential figures on the contemporary classical music scene.

In this century traditional Irish music has inspired modern composers such as Seán Ó Ríada, A. J. Potter, Brian Boydell, Seoirse Bodley, Shaun Davey and Mícheal Ó Súilleabháin, to name but a few.

Since the 1960s, traditional Irish music has grown in popularity, both in Ireland and abroad, through groups as diverse as The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, Clannad, The Chieftains, De Dannan and Altan, who have put traditional music into a modern context without compromising its timeless essence and integrity. Another example of this phenomenon in Irish culture is the international hit show 'Riverdance', which brings together the best of Irish song, dance and music.

Ireland also has an international reputation for other musical styles, with artists like Van Morrisson, U2, Sinéad O' Connor and The Cranberries. New acts are hitting the world stage, such as Therapy, Ash and The Corrs.

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Some Irish Music suggestions

The Spirit of Ireland - Matt Cunningham - Twenty Eight classic Irish instrumentals Matt Cunningham, a true ambassador of Irish music shows on this album a side to his music that could never be overshadowed in the eclectic nature of his performances. All the tracks on this recording are indigenous to Ireland, the contemplative mood of the music which is in harmony with the countryside transcends on the listener like the Spirit of Ireland.The tracks include: The Coolin; Forty Shades of Green; The Old Rustic Bridge ; Danny Boy and many more.

Celtic Rendezvous - Paddy Cole - The warm, rich sound of the clarinet weaving Irish melodies with haunting orchestration Paddy Cole is known nationally and internationally for his traditional jazz sound. He has now developed a beautiful and magical new sound. The music on this album is an intricate weave of the rich and mellow timbre of the clarinet with lush orchestration which together breathe a magical new life into the haunting sound of some of Ireland's greatest traditional melodies. We know that you will love this album!

Celtic Spirit - Poignant and moving interpretations of classic Scottish and Irish ballads Songs can often express so much about the culture of a country, transporting the listener on a spiritual journey through the sentiments and feelings of a nation. This is illustrated none more clearly than with 'Celtic Spirit', a magnificent blend of the most poignant Scottish and Irish melodies on one beautiful album. A moving and evocative selection of music, combining the traditional with the contemporary. 'Celtic Spirit' is an album to reflect to, to romance to or perhaps to even shed a tear to....wherever you may be.

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