Sean Nós is a singing (and dancing) style in Ireland, the Gaelic phrase for which simply means 'traditional style'. In musical terms it refers to a simple, unaccompanied style of singing that is text driven, and generally presented in a rubato form. Irish singers singing in both Irish and English play in this style, although the older songs are originally in the Irish language. Styles from three distinct 'Gaeltacht' (Gaelic speaking) areas remain: Kerry and Cork, from Galway and Connemara and finally Donegal. These separate regions were created by the slow extension of the 'Pale' and its purveyance of British language and culture. Originally, Gaelic was spoken throughout Ireland until the beginning of its decline in the 17th C.
Beginners: Learn the rudiments of the style, beginning with simple songs such as "Suil Aruin', lullabyes and other children's songs. Learn to execute simple ornaments.
Intermediate: Learn more ornamentation, and begin to learn more complex songs. Study the singing of Ireland's best sean nós singers.
Advanced: Learn advanced level repertoire, complete with full-on vocal ornamentation etc. Study the intricate style of the Chonemara singers, learn the rudiments of Gaelic pronunciation. Choose songs for a program, learn how to set songs for yourself. Further study of repertoire and contemporary sean nós singers.
Sound bites of Pat singing:
Beginners: Learn the rudiments of the style, beginning with simple songs such as "Suil Aruin', lullabyes and other children's songs. Learn to execute simple ornaments.
Intermediate: Learn more ornamentation, and begin to learn more complex songs. Study the singing of Ireland's best sean nós singers.
Advanced: Learn advanced level repertoire, complete with full-on vocal ornamentation etc. Study the intricate style of the Chonemara singers, learn the rudiments of Gaelic pronunciation. Choose songs for a program, learn how to set songs for yourself. Further study of repertoire and contemporary sean nós singers.
Sound bites of Pat singing: