Greetings All,

I suspect that if what this chap has to say is correct that all the tunes and instrumental arrangements were created at precisely the same moment in time. It would seem to me that unless this occurred the tradition would be considered evolutionary.

My understanding of the Irish music tradition is that it brings the community together and entertains them. Camaraderie, celebration, and political statement seem to be the foundation of any folk music tradition. I've witnessed this phenomenon with many different instrumental configurations.

To me the Irish folk music tradition, just like other folk music traditions, is more a matter of honest music created from a passion and inner voice solely for the sake of the music. If it is presented on a guitar rather than a violin is it any less impassioned?

It has been most astutely asked previously in this thread; What time segment do we isolate and call traditional in a music genre that has, and will continue to be, evolving?

Peace,
Ed