The melodic tradition of Ireland / James R. Cowdery.

Author/creator Cowdery, James R., 1953-
Format Book
Publication InfoKent, Ohio : Kent State University Press, ©1990.
Descriptionxv, 202 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm.
Subjects

SeriesWorld musics
World musics. ^A259369
Contents The melodic tradition of Ireland. Historical background ; Language ; Sean-nos ; Learning ; Where the music lives ; Musical elements ; Instruments -- "Putting it over". Decorating a song ; The pulse ; The nea ; "Say a song" -- Portrait of a tune: "The blackbird". Preliminary sketch ; Transcribed examples ; Summary -- "The whole of it". Development of the tune-family concept ; Three principles -- Two outlining families: "Ballylee" and "Rakish Paddy" -- Conjoining: "The Boyne water" -- Recombining: "The blackbird". "The beauty of innuendoes".
Abstract This book draws on previous studies of Irish music and general melodic theory to describe the inner workings of a rich melodic tradition. Irish folk music, resting upon monophonic melodies which are varied and ornamented, are thus viewed from several perspectives - ethnographic and musical, insider and theoretical - to weave an integrated image of a still thriving genre.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (pages 185-194) and index.
LCCN 89024436
ISBN0873384075

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Music Closed Stacks - Ask at Circulation Desk ML287.C68 1990 ✔ Available Place Hold