In Celtic Roots, we explore the earliest written sources that preserve Scottish and Irish traditional folk music. We also look at the deep connections between that music and the music of England and America. Traditional music from Scotland and Ireland was first written down in Scottish and English courtly collections for the lute, viol, cittern, and virginal from the early 17th century. Many tunes appeared in collections from two or more of the countries, demonstrating an active commerce in the folk music from Scotland and Ireland.
Many tunes published in that period are still part of a living repertoire.
If you happened upon a music session in a pub in Scotland or Ireland today, you might hear any of the tunes on this recording. They endure not only because they were written down, but because of the living oral tradition that has continued unbroken these three hundred years. This set follows Celtic music as it travels between Scotland, Ireland, England and America. We begin with an early American version on hammered dulcimer and guitar. Then Philippe takes us to Ireland with his versions of the three tunes, all still part of the living Irish tradition.