This session is an introduction to Irish traditional music, and especially the fiddle repertoire of Ireland. A general overview of the history and features of traditional music in Ireland will lead on to a more in depth look at the various fiddle styles in Irish music. This will be a mix of live musical demonstrations, and by considering the historical and contemporary musical examples from the main regional styles (Sligo, Donegal, Clare, and Sliabh Luachra). Having demonstrated the rich regional varieties, the session will conclude by showing how contemporary Irish fiddling is changing, and argue that there is a creative dialogue underway between ‘older’ regional styles and new musical influences.

Nicholas Cooper has a doctorate in musicology from University College (Dublin) and is a musician. He is a researcher interested in the relationship between gypsy jazz and philosophy. A multi-instrumentalist, he plays the violin, viola, guitar, vocals and spoons in the traditional Irish repertoire. Recently settled in Belgium, he is playing with the duo Féileacán.

Timetable & PROGRAMME of the 6 SESSION cycle

• 21/10/2021 : Klay Mawungu & Bambi Ceuppens – Congolese Rumba Music
• 18/11/2021 : Osvaldo Hernandez – Music in Hispanic America
• 16/12/2021 : Hélène Sechehaye – Popular Music in Morocco
• DTBD/2022 : Hubert Boone – Traditional Music in Belgium
• 10/03/2022 : Nicholas Cooper – Irish Traditional Music
• 05/05/2022 : Anaïs Verhulst – Karnatak Music (South Indian classical music)

Price for the complete six-session cycle: 40€ (or 25€ for Muziekpublique members).

A Muziekpublique & ICTM Belgium initiative