Irish Traditional Music: History & Heritage

Description

This module will explore the traditional folk music traditions of the island of Ireland as expressions of intangible heritage as these are defined under the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003). These traditions have a long history of evolution going back to the High Middle Ages and include music, song and dance, both in Gaelic and English, and encompasses the music and song tradition of the Orange Order and the community that supports its activities.

Learning Outcomes

  1. demonstrate an appreciation the place of music, song and dance in Irish cultural tradition and contemporary life.

  2. distinguish the main facets of Irish traditional folk music, song and dance as they have evolved since the 17th century.

  3. account for the historical forces that led to the mid-20th century revival on Irish traditional folk music after a long period of slow decline.

  4. engage in the current debate on innovation, commercialisation and internationalisation of Irish traditional and Irish folk music, articulating their own insights into and opinions on these developments.

  5. critique Irish traditional folk music and song performances from stylistic and aesthetic perspectives, evaluating aspects of continuity and innovation by the artists involved.

Credits
05
% Coursework 50%
% Final Exam 50%