The *idea* of the solo perfomance was promoted by Irish Cultural revivalists in the early 20th century. Although I really enjoy when a room quiets down to hear a solo singer or slow air played, it is just as thrilling to hear the crowd egg on a group of musicians tearing through a bunch of reels.

People who were born in Ireland tell me they never heard guitar being played in Irish music before the Clancy Brothers, although most seem to appreciate what they did to encourage people to sing and take interest in old songs. I have talked to people who have told me in the 1940's and 50's it was more common to hear Bing Crosby being played in a pub than any traditional music.

Traditional music doesn't stay in a vaccuum. It is affected by the period that it is being played in. The Ceilidh bands were a reflection of the stage bands which were popular on both sides of the Atlantic. It was not unusual to contrast a set dance with a fox trot or set of waltzes. The addition of the guitar to modern sessiúns is a reflection of rock music as well as many other influences mentioned

Brían