Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs

Subject: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: Haruo
Date: 30 Dec 03 - 09:44 PM

There are threads devoted to Groundhog's Day songs and threads devoted to Candlemas songs, but how about Imbolc? Paula and I are planning an open house to show off our new digs to family and close friends, and it might be nice to have a little pertinent song to share. Groundhog's Day is most apposite, since we live in the basement and have to come outside to see what the weather's like, but for variety Candlemas and Imbolc might be nice to commemorate.

Haruo

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: GUEST,Julia
Date: 30 Dec 03 - 11:26 PM

The word "Imbolc" comes from the old Gaelic for "Ewe's milk" as this was / is the time when the female sheep began lactating offering a nourishing change from late winter's fare. Additionally, Bride , or Bridget, who is the patron "saint " of this time is known as a midwife- emergence from the darkness of winter, birthing new ideas and creativity in addition to the physical aspect of this role.
Maybe that will give you some ideas for songs
Best- Julia

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: GUEST,ClaireBear
Date: 31 Dec 03 - 11:07 AM

Danny Carnahan's "Dram to Warm the Piper" was actually written for a Twelfth Night party and has some New Year references, but the sentiment is, I think, also appropriate for Imbolc and for warming a house (particularly one with low rafters!).

The chorus is "Here's a dram to warm the piper; here's a dram to warm the hall. Here's a dram to raise the rafters, and here's long life to us all."

There's a correct version of the lyrics and MIDItext/ABC in a thread here. Down towards the end of the thread there's an additional verse added by Clinton Hammond that is particularly appropriate for Imbolc, as it talks about cleansing your soul in the first flames of the year.

There's also a version (whose lyrics and title both need correcting) and MIDI in the DT as "Here's a Dram for the Piper" -- but don't use them; they're too far wrong.

Blessings! Claire

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: Peg
Date: 31 Dec 03 - 11:28 AM

I know we had at least one or two songs for the Imbolc segment on the album "Wheel of the Year" but I am not sure f they were specific to the festival, or just generic enough that they fit...let me look into it...

it's a sad one, but Sheep beneath the Snow is one about sheep and winter, which gives it some imbolc imagery...

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: GUEST
Date: 31 Dec 03 - 12:25 PM

Wheel of the year album sounds interesting Peg... where would I be able to get a copy if it's possible.
~Debs~

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: Dipsodeb
Date: 31 Dec 03 - 12:27 PM

Sorry the above was me I didn't realise I wasn't logged on :)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: Peg
Date: 31 Dec 03 - 02:52 PM

it can probably be ordered thru www.azuregreen.com...

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Imbolc Songs
From: GUEST,Philippa
Date: 03 Jan 04 - 01:54 PM

there's also the Brigid's Kiss album by La Lugh
- and old Mudcat threads on the topic, look up Brigid , Sf Brigid's day ,etc