Irish and French Music are two distinct genres which have interacted over the years, both having influences from each other such as Gregorian Chants, Harp Music and Court Music.
Both genres have long histories and remain influential on modern music today, offering you a rewarding musical experience. So if you want something fresh and different to listen to, check out these songs that combine French and Irish Music into a unique blend.
Traditional Irish Music
Irish traditional music (trad) has long been an integral part of Ireland’s cultural identity and has given birth to multiple genres that span multiple genres today. Its versatile nature has seen musicians and listeners alike embrace it from across the world.
Irish songs were historically passed from generation to generation orally without official written forms being created for them. This tradition still thrives today and contributes greatly to Ireland’s unique musical legacy.
Irish traditional music features many popular instruments such as fiddle, flute, tin whistle, uilleann pipes, concertina and diatonic accordion; other instruments like button accordion and bouzouki may also make appearances in these ensembles.
Trad sessions are at the core of Irish traditional music, where musicians from all walks of life gather for an evening of song and dancing in homes or public venues. It provides an enjoyable social experience where children, parents, grandparents all come together in an informal yet social atmosphere to enjoy traditional Irish tunes together.
Irish Music in France
French and Irish music share an intricate relationship, with many French-Canadian songs featuring Irish elements influenced by their migration during the Great Famine to Quebec.
The Irish folk-rock movement in the 1970s further popularised Irish music. Bands such as Planxty, The Chieftains and The Dubliners modernised traditional instruments and melodies with innovative arrangements and productions.
Doolin’ is an ensemble of Toulouse-based musicians that has provided audiences with a refreshing approach to traditional tunes by taking inspiration from pop-rock, folk, jazz, funk and rap music – always done so tastefully and energetically on stage. Their energy and passion for their art makes them stand out amongst competitors and contributes significantly to their success.
Airs Tordus is an iconic album, exploring the connections between Irish and Quebec music through a dynamic duo involving Irish “fluter” player Grey Larsen and Andre Marchand from La Bottine Souriante – two talented members who worked beautifully together. Their interpretations of Breton and Irish songs make this album essential listening for anyone passionate about Irish or Celtic music.
Irish Music in the United States
Irish music has had a strong influence on American popular genres of music such as bluegrass and folk, particularly after Irish immigrants brought traditional song to America with them and some were later recorded by American singer-songwriters.
Traditional Irish music groups still often employ fiddle, pipes and harp instruments; however, guitar has become much more widely utilized than ever before. Additionally, the bouzouki plays an integral part in this form of music.
Modern musicians frequently combine these instruments in different combinations to produce a distinct Irish-sounding contemporary music soundscape. Tin whistle is often employed, though other instruments like the bodhran (an Irish drum) may also be employed regularly.
There are various bands performing traditional Irish music in the US. Slide has been described as “traditional musicians with attitude”, making regular appearances at US Celtic festival circuit performances. Another band, Scythian, started performing Celtic tunes on street corners before becoming one of the headlining acts on that circuit.
Irish Music in Canada
French and Irish music has long been enjoyed in Canada, by people of various social classes including soldiers, colonial administrators, and others.
As Canada developed, they gradually incorporated more western music into their daily lives, such as opera performances and concerts in Quebec City and Halifax during the 1800s.
Many Canadians were still inspired by European musicians for musical instruction on instruments like violin and lute.
Traditional singers such as La Bolduc were masterful performers of traditional French Canadian folk tunes that combined Irish melodies with Irish tunes. Additionally, these singers could add humorous or satirical lyrics into their performances that made for unforgettable entertainment and listening experiences.