Enhancing the Accessibility of Irish Traditional Music Through Collaboration: Insights from the Creative Tradition and Music Generation Partnership
Jessica Cawley
Published in: Ethnomusicology Ireland 9 (2024), pp. 11-23.
ISSN 2009-4094
Abstract
Over the past decade, the transmission of Irish traditional music has continued to change alongside the musical culture itself. This article explores emerging trends and pathways available to young people learning traditional music. Drawing upon my own teaching experience, the discussion primarily focuses on the partnership between two organizations: Creative Tradition and Music Generation. The first part of the article outlines Music Generation’s methods to support children and young people to learn and play traditional music in their local areas. The latter portion provides specific insights into the local practice within Music Generation Cork City, particularly through the lens of the Creative Tradition project. Exploring issues of partnership, this article raises broader questions about how traditional music can become more inclusive. Such a move is hugely important if Irish traditional music is to stay vibrant and relevant throughout the 21st century and beyond.
Keywords: Irish traditional music, transmission, music education, inclusion, teaching practice, cultural change, Music Generation