Irish music is a divisive force in world culture. My overall sense is that you either "get it" or you don't. I can listen to all the variations of Irish music for hours, it just seems to be in my blood, but I know others who gripe that it's "all the same," the "heenely-heenely" of the fiddles, pipes and bodhráns (those are the Irish handheld drums). Or they moan that Irish tunes are depressing and morose, filled as they are with dead people and minor keys.
If your only impression of Irish music is pop superstars U2 or familiar singalongs like "When Irish Eyes are Smiling," our CD collection at DPPL can broaden your Celtic horizons. Stop by the third floor display, assembled by Readers' Services Assistant Laura Adler and titled, "Irish Music: Beyond U2 & The Clancy Brothers." You'll find public television heartthrobs Celtic Thunder, contemporary Celtic folk band Solas and varied collections full of authentically traditional jigs, reels and airs. You'll also find recordings by modern Irish rock bands like Snow Patrol and My Bloody Valentine.
I've only been able to travel to Ireland once, but I think even a few days there can help you understand why so much artistry has come out of this tiny island. The landscape is by turns lush and then stark, green and then grey. There's tremendous hardship in the history and yet, a love of laughter and story-telling, too. The pub culture of the cities and towns encourages performers and the dark, silent nights in the country provide plenty of time for reflection and creation. If you share a love for Irish music with me, then check out some CDs to begin your St. Patrick's Day celebration. If you're convinced Irish music is all the same, I think we can gently, or forcefully, sway your opinion.
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