In the past there was a nationalist enthusiasm. If England had been subject to a foreign power I'm sure there would be the same effect.

Now Ireland stands on her own feet it must be love or a commercial career opportunity or both/

In our sessions in Sheffield we don't get too many young Irish musicians any more.

i've got five sons, all into music but not trad! It's peer influence at first. Unless you are a youngster witha scial life tied in with traditional music it is unlikely you will pursue it once away from parental influemce unless you got gripped by it young.

In the past there were dancehalls where young Irish immigrants could socialise and meet the opposite sex. Now there are other clubs and a less segregated society. Good for people bad for the tradition?