They call the Irish “the Fighting Irish.” There is a reason for that, and if you look at Irish History, you will find that Irish Music is very much linked to oppression by the English, religious disputes, and the rich v. the poor subsistence farmers. The great discrepancy comes between the industrialized North and the agricultural Republic of Ireland.
I grew up viewing the videos on television of school children throwing rocks at other kids of a different religious persuasion. It is clear to understand that hatred in ingrained by parents and passed from generation to generation.
Well, between yesterday and today, I have recorded two Irish songs, “The Ould Orange Flute,” and “The Wearing of the Green.” In both, I do not use an instrument other than my own voice because I want you to hear the words clearly.
I have much more to learn about Ireland but my studies of it so far have been enlightening and grand. Let me remind you of an exhibit of Irish quilts that we saw and photographed for The Quilter magazine a few years ago, when they were shown at the Craftadventures Show in Springfield, Massachusetts, along with many Irish-themed crafts. It was a delight to be able to see what Irish women are making today.
“… and still I’m on my way,”
Patricia Cummings
Quilter’s Muse Publications
