Source: Caoimhe, Irish Community Manager
A chairde,
Welcome back! Today, we'll be discussing some of the traditional Irish music instruments. Irish music is an integral part of Ireland’s valuable heritage, and there are a variety of musical instruments that showcase this wonderful musical tradition.
It's important to understand that traditional Irish music relies heavily on the various instruments used. They are instrumental in presenting the music effectively and truly reflect the beauty and richness of Ireland's musical heritage.
Fiddle - Fidil
One of the most sought-after instruments in Irish culture is the fiddle. It's a positive and lively instrument, and the fiddle is the primary instrument used in many traditional Irish music sessions. Both young and old people can play the fiddle, and it's one of the most common instruments heard at music sessions.
Harp - Cruit
The harp is a historic musical instrument that existed over 1,000 years ago. It's still present today and is still used in Irish traditional music. The harp can be used as a solo instrument.
Bodhrán
The bodhrán provides the rhythmic backbone for Irish traditional music. It's a musical drum with a taut, goat-skin head and is often used to add rhythm to the music. Anyone can strike it with great emphasis, and it's always used in music sessions and music groups.
Concertina - Consairtín
The concertina is one of the simplest and easiest-to-learn musical instruments. It's primarily used in traditional Irish music but is widely used worldwide. If you're looking to tackle something new in music, the concertina could be the instrument for you.
Uilleann Pipes - An Píb Uilleann
The uilleann pipes are a lighter traditional Irish music instrument and are more often used in small gatherings than the concert hall. They can always be played, but some skills are needed to play it well.
These are just some of the traditional Irish music instruments, but there are many more!
Make sure to check out our Irish language courses here in OLS to improve your language skills!
And finally, enjoy your music and show your interest in Irish culture! - Agus ar deireadh, bain sult as do chuid ceoil agus taispeáin do chuid spéise i gcultúr Éireannach!
Le Grá,
Caoimhe, OLS Community Manager - Irish