Oct 28, 2024
What is the U.S. Electoral College? And what does it have to do
with The Kesh Jig and The Humours of Glendart? This election
adjacent exploration of two popular jigs takes a look at the
stories behind jig (and Presidential) contenders, and the process
used to choose a winner.
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For playlists,...
May 31, 2024
When you’re making an instrument, you’re forming something that can be used to design a melody. Or a musical life. This episode follows a precious flute’s unexpected journey. And flute makers Patrick Olwell and Eamonn Cotter, piper Colleen Shanks, and fiddle players Bob Childs and Pat O’Connor talk about what...
Feb 29, 2024
Irish musicians, and writers, and home makers can all benefit by learning some rules and technical skills—and by allowing a little spontaneity and flexibility. But how much great technique do you need? Does that get in the way of the magic? In this episode, Nathan Gourley, Brendan Mulholland, and Sharon Murphy reflect...
Oct 14, 2023
Boston producer Brian O’Donovan made a lot of space for Irish music and culture. He was dedicated to sharing it widely. And though he presented music on formal stages and through his WGBH broadcast “A Celtic Sojourn,” casual, public Irish music sessions were ever important and enduring for him. This beloved...
Sep 28, 2023
Could traditional music sessions exist without listeners? Are
the non-playing listeners in public spaces important for tune
players? Here’s a brief podcast adaptation of a video response to
this intriguing little question!
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For playlists, transcripts, links to videos, companion essays, and to...