Traditional music:
In the seventeenth century harp musicians were patronised by the aristocracy in Ireland. This died out in the eighteenth century. Turlough Carolan (1670 – 1738) was the most famous,[1][2] and over 200 of his compositions are known. He wrote in a baroque style that is usually classified as classical music, but is played by many folk musicians today. Edward Bunting collected some of the last-known harp tunes at the Belfast Harp Festival in 1792. Other important collectors include Francis O’Neill[3] and George Petrie.

Irish dance music at weddings and saint’s days would have included reels (4/4), hornpipes and jigs (the common double jig is in 6/8 time).[4] The polka arrived at the start of the nineteenth century, spread by itinerant dancing masters and mercenary soldiers, returning from Europe.[5] Set dancing may have arrived in the eighteenth century.[6] Later imported dance-signatures include the mazurka and the highlands (a sort of Irished version of the Scottish strathspey).[7] In the nineteenth century folk instruments would have included the flute the fiddle and the uilleann pipes.

By the start of the twentieth century the button accordion and the concertina were becoming common.[8] Irish stepdance was performed at céilís, organised competitions and at some country houses where local and itinerant musicians were welcome. [9] Irish dancing was supported by the educational system and patriotic organisations. An older style of singing called sean-nós (“in the old style”), which is a form of traditional Irish singing was still found, mainly for very poetic songs in the Irish language.[10] From 1820 to 1920 over 4,400,000 Irish emigrated to the USA, creating a Celtic diaspora in Chicago (see Francis O’Neill), Boston, New York and other cities.[11] Irish musicians who were successful in the USA made recordings which found their way around the world and re-invigorated musical styles back in the homeland. [12] An example is Ann Moray, who included traditional Irish music in her concerts, and issued a recording titled Gaelic Songs and Legends as well as a recording of Love Songs of Robert Burns.[13]

The 1960s saw the emergence of The Dubliners and The Chieftains.

Enjoy one of the most famous Irish song”Whiskey in the jar” sang by The Dubliners.

Now, take a look at this other video. Another very famous Irish band during the 70’s, Thin Lizzy is performing the same old song “Whiskey in the jar”. Hope you enjoy it!