Hello Catters.

 

I have been following many of the threads since I was introduced to the cat by my great friend and fellow circle member Frank McGrath.

 

My contributions have been few due to pressure of work but at last I have found a little time to devote to my passion, which in case you don't know, is traditional song.

 

Therein lies a tail. A lot depends on what one terms as traditional and itis very difficult if not impossible to define that.

 

When I first came to Ireland in 1971, my definition was very clear cut. A song must have stood the test of time to become traditional and only the better ones will survive. There I was, sitting in O'Connors in Doolin, listening to a couple of people singing. Somebody sang a most beautiful love song and it seemed to me that it was a very old song. I asked about its origins and was informed that it had been written the day before. My theory was blown to pieces in seconds.

 

My mind has broadened considerably since then and my own definition of traditional song is simply a song sung in the old style. Thus songs written today can be every bit as traditional as songs written in Napoleonic times or before. A good song is a good song no matter when it was written. But I still love the old songs.

 

I would like to see comments on your understanding of traditional song.