SS1154 Music, Emigration and Ireland

This module will examine Irish music in the context of emigration from the 18th century to the 21st century. In particular, the module will explore music and cultural practice as they evolved and responded to migrant contexts in North America and Britain. The reciprocal influences of Irish traditional practices and American folk and popular music will also be investigated and key developments such as the advent of music recording, the folk music revival, and Irish music on the American stage. Finally, emigrant music communities of the new millennium in Ireland will be examined. Conceptual issues of authenticity and tradition will underscore much of the discussions and central questions such as what constitutes traditional performance and the transformative potential of dance and music will be explored and exemplified through a variety of performance platforms. Students will also have the opportunity to meet with performers and take sean-nós song and dance workshops, in addition to having an instrumental traditional music showcase as part of the programme.