A History of Ireland In Song
Updated March 23, 2003
L.C.
It's the only place on earth,
That heaven has kissed,
With melody, mirth,
And meadow and mist!

There is no country on earth which expresses its history in song the way Ireland does. From the simple Irish folk tune, to refined opera, the Irish don’t simply tell their history, they sing it. Every young Irishman learns and sings the songs that entertain and educate. The numerous political uprisings are expressed in their stirring songs of revolution. Their love of land and each other is expressed in their beautiful ballads which have a place in our hearts. Their songs of emigration haunt us and express the sadness of a child leaving home, and the hope of a new beginning. The music calls her sons and daughters home again insuring them that Mother Ireland has not forgotten them.

The richness of Ireland’s musical history hasn’t been brought to us with such distinction since the late John McCormack. Anthony Kearns brings all types of Irish historical music to the forefront in his performances. He knows how to have fun with music; his character songs set the toe tapping and the heart to smiling. When he sings of the troubles and the rising, he brings a tear to the eye, as in “The Croppy Boy.” His songs of parting like “Danny Boy” and the poignancy of “The Old House” are filled with nostalgia. His ballads make us fall in love again. As we watch Mr. Kearns sing of his country’s past, his face becomes solemn, it is as though the mist of history has wrapped itself around him. The sweet sound of his gentle voice beckons us to enter into his mind’s eye and we see with him the joys and sorrows in the tapestry of Irish history.

This writer cannot possibly write a History of Ireland in Song; it has been done to perfection! The songwriters of history have done that; I'll leave it to them. But I will provide you the access to lists of songs and you may retrieve the lyrics you choose. There is no way that I can print all the music of Ireland’s history within these pages. Therefore you may do your own investigating into the beautiful ballads, the wonderful character songs, and the rousing revolutionary pieces which highlight Irish history! Click on the following URLs to begin your journey.

I have also thrown in a great history site, as well as two places to begin your search for your Irish roots. ENJOY!



History In Song
Music
More Music
Interesting History
Genealogy
Irish Genealogy Society
Irish Music Index
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