![]() ![]() ![]() Many conquests of Ireland had taken place during the 500 hundred years before but the English showed a brutal determinism that has lasting effects on the culture of the Irish. This tradition came to a terrible halt during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. If you were a competent harpist during this period of Irish history, you could make a fine living performing in the Courts of the Chieftains. The harp has remained a feature of Irish music ever since.ĭuring the Middle Ages, the harp became a favourite instrument in Ireland, desired and admired by the nobility. It was an instrument found frequently in Africa, Asia and Europe and one the Celts could have brought with them on their migration across Europe. This is an ancient instrument with a legacy dating to 3000 BC. One instrument that has dominated the music of Ireland is the harp. This raises all kinds of questions regarding the music that could have been heard so far back in the history of Ireland. Dating back as far as 2000 BC, a set of six cylindrical wooden pipes carved by hand in yew wood was found in County Wicklow, Ireland. The horns, trumpets and drums would have been used to great effect in battle. ![]() These may have included bronze horns or trumpets of a kind, skin drums and possible early string instruments. It is thought that the Celts would have brought with them a selection of traditional instruments. They would have come from countries across Europe that we would recognise as Austria, Switzerland, Germany and France.Įach of these cultures and traditions would have significantly contributed to what would become known as Irish music. The Celts were a motley crew we categorise as Indo-European. This is the time scholars believe, would have been when the Celts arrived in Ireland. It takes us on a journey stretching back in time to around 500 BC. The music of Ireland, like so many other countries music, is a fascinating and complex one. ![]()
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