Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Brendan's Reel

Brendan's by Christelrice
 Here is a tune that I learned from  Michael McGoldrick and John McSherry's recording, At First Light called Brendan's Reel.  This tune is especially posted for my advanced student, Sarah.

Brendan's


Biddy from Sligo Jig


 Here is a lovely jig that I learned from the playing of Cathal McConnell, one of the founding members of the group, Boys of the Lough.  

Here is the written version of the tune as well: Biddy from Sligo




Thursday, March 22, 2012

What is Fleadh Cheoil?

Fleadh Cheoil means Festival of Music in Irish Gaelic and is an Irish music competition run by   Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCÉ). 
    There are various stages to the competition. In Ireland there are county and provincial competitions leading to the All-Ireland Fleadh.  North America has two regional qualifying Fleadh Cheoil. The Mid-Atlantic Fleadh covers the US eastern seaboard, eastern Canada and the Maritimes. The Midwest Fleadh covers the rest of North America from Cleveland, Chicago, St. Louis, Atlanta and Detroit to San Francisco.
Competitions are divided into the following age categories: under 12, 12-15, 15-18, and over 18 (senior). 
 The Mid Atlantic Fleadh will be taking place May 19th 2012.  For details, please go to:Mid Atlantic Fleadh Rules and Application

The All Ireland Fleadh will be held in Cavan, Ireland for a third year in succession!

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Saint Patrick's by Christelrice

 My daughter may dance to this particular set dance tune a zillion times over Saint Patrick's Day, which is why I am giving you this tune today.   A set dance is a type of dance-tune arranged or composed by dancers to display their finest "footwork."   This tune, Saint Patrick's Day doubles the first part, with the second part leading back in repeating the first and is played only once.  Everyone got that?!

Saint Patrick's