Singing is a large part of traditional Irish music. One of the best known singing in Ireland is the 'sean-nós'. This means 'old style'. This is when the person sings on his/her own, without any music.
Singer Helen Roche
Copyright Tony Kearns
Copyright Tony Kearns
Irish songs tell many different stories. There are songs about love, hardship, war, death and many others. There are also many funny songs. Traditional Irish songs can be in Irish or English. Some songs are also in 'Cant' or 'Shelta'. This is the language of the Irish Travellers.
Why not listen to some of the songs on the following pages?
You can also download the lyrics and sing along!