The looks on the faces of the American congregation when they were faced with the Gaelic singing - look to be a similar response. Seeing and hearing this in the film - probably says more that the academic opinions of those who were not there or who have not seem the film.

It was a bit sad to see some who could only see this in terms of politics - rather than the musical history it is. Wllie Ruff being dismissed as a child of his time and in favour of integration was not fair. If intergration means everyone getting along, singing together and learning from each other - then I am all for it.

The idea that gospel music is in some way devalued by an influence from the Gaelic connection - and any less Afican in origin is not valid. Especially as no one was really making such a claim.


The idea that there is syncopation in 'sean nor' singing is an interesting one. I would be interested in the evidence for this.

Also the call and respose aspect would not be unknown to all of those brought to the New World at this time - in sailing vessels and their shanty-singing crews