Connemara Cradle Song

Background

'Connemara Cradle Song' is an old Irish folksong, set along the coast of the beautiful, rugged area of Connemara in Co Galway. The soothing melody and lyrics about the ocean make it a wonderful lullaby, as well as a sea shanty. The lyrics include 'currach', which is a type of boat traditionally found in Ireland and Scotland. It was originally constructed by stretching animal hides or skins across a wooden frame.

The original composer is unknown, although some sources have attributed the lyrics to Connemara singer and collector of Irish ballads Delia Murphy (1902-1971). The song uses the same air as 'Down in the Valley'.

The harp arrangement on Ask about Ireland is by Brenda O'Riordan.