"An rud is annamh is iontach"

The above quote is Celtic, meaning "The thing that is seldom is wonderful." It is supposed to serve as a reminder not to overindulge, but also to enjoy something while you have it. As in many cultures, the Celts have a history of story-telling, and often there is a "moral of the story." Although they have some fantastic fables of fighting and famine and the music to go with them! I chose to write my final blog on the Celts because they have many tales to tell, and what better way to tell a tale than through song? The piece below is one of my favorites, and an excellent example of Celtic music:

A Brief History of the Celts: 

Many people believe that Celtic is synonymous with Irish. Today, that is mostly true, however that was not always the case. In 500 B.C.E., the Celtic people migrated from Central Asia to Europe, flocking towards Britain, Ireland, Spain and France. They were driven out of their land as a result of wars started by Julius Caesar (the guy on the Little Caesar's pizza boxes, "Et Tu, Brute", got stabbed a few times, ringing any bells?). By the first century C.E., Celts were ruling most of Europe. They did not become the prominent culture in Europe by invasion or force, instead they lead with innovation and advancement in technology. Unfortunately, the Romans could not let go of the fact that the Celts had moved on, and were happy in their new relationship. So, around 43 C.E., the Romans invaded, and slaughtered, and all the other things that come with attempted world domination. A few Celts were able to hide and "mingle" among the people of western Europe, which is the only reason that their music and small traces of their culture still exist today in Ireland and Great Britain. 

Leftovers:

We all know there are leftovers that are good (pizza) and leftovers that probably should have just been thrown out (egg and tuna salad). Luckily, the leftover Celtic culture goes the way of pizza and can be enjoyed with a pint of cider. Today, we can still experience their language, food, and stories of butch warrior women. Traces of their language can still be found in Wales and Ireland, thanks to the passing-down of stories and songs from those who survived the Romans. If you're curious about Celtic food and would like to try some, you can find many recipes here. One of the richest parts of Celtic culture and history is their music. 

"A ghaoil, leig dhachaigh gum mhàthair mi":

The above quote is actually a song title, translating to "Love, let me home to my mother." This is the oldest song we have from Ancient Celtic music. You can read about various chants and battle songs from as early as 26 C.E., but the information we have is as told by Greeks and Romans who invaded the Celtic land. One account I find fascinating is told by a Roman soldier, who recalls witnessing a Gallic charging into battle... singing. Spear in hand, victory in sight, this man of war was singing. Most the records we have from the Romans regard the music and culture of the Celts as barbaric. We all know that this is far from the truth, as the Celts were leaders in technology in innovation. The only reason the Romans described the Celtic people as barbaric is because they were actually pagan. 

Celtic people would often worship nature, with the stars and sun and moon being at the center of their spirituality. A common form of worship would be to chant and dance around a circle of stones. If they were praising the gods, they would dance in a clockwise motion, if they were praying for help, the Celtic people would dance in a counter-clockwise motion. Unfortunately, the only record we have of Celtic religious music can be found in the Catholic Church... the ROMAN Catholic church. Want to guess how "Celtic" that music really is?

This song we know for sure is ancient Celtic, and is a peaceful, calming folk song. Please enjoy "A ghaoil leig dhachaigh gum mhathair mi":

Instruments of Mass Destruction:

No, Celtic instruments did not double as weapons. However, one of the most important instruments of the Ancients Celts is the carnyx, which was used to lead soldiers into battle. This imposing instrument was made of bronze, and was basically an f-shaped, valveless trumpet. One of the most interesting aspects of the carnyx is its bell, which was often shaped into an animals head and was mounted using hinges, so it would move whenever the instrument was played. The intent of this animal-inspired bell was to intimidate opponents when charging into battle. As you'll see in the video below, the effect is, indeed, menacing. 

Modern Celtic Music:

This is the moment we've all been waiting for. Or at least, this is the moment I've been waiting for. Celtic music, both ancient and modern, is so enchanting, so captivating. Which should come to no surprise, as almost all Celtic music is centered around story-telling. I would be remiss if I talked about modern Celtic music and didn't mention Enya. She is responsible for resurrecting traditional Celtic music and showing it to the rest of the world. In her song featured below, "The Celts" you can hear her singing in the native tongue, as well as heavy use of drums (or Bodhran), which is a clear characteristic of this genre. 

Another group that lead the charge on modern Celtic music is the Celtic Women. Like Enya, they sing many traditional Irish songs, but they also create modern interpretations. In the video below, you will see and hear more of the traditional aspects of Irish music (traditional dance, violin, drums) as well characteristics that appeal to a more worldly listener.

I hope you enjoyed my blog on Celtic culture and music. I encourage you to explore other artists within this genre, you won't be disappointed! 

Sources:

Wikipedia "Celtic Music" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celtic_music 2/04/2021

History.com Editors, "Who Were The Celts" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celtic_music 2/04/2020

Mingren, Wu "The Carnyx" https://www.ancient-origins.net/artifacts-other-artifacts/carnyx-ancient-trumpet-leading-celtic-warriors-battle-006019 2/04/2021

The World of Music Network, "Ancient Celtic Music" https://www.barzhoneg.com/ancient-celtic-music/ 2/04/2021

Charlotte Farley, "Open Your Ears to Celtic Music" https://www.musical-u.com/learn/open-your-ears-to-celtic-music/# 2//04/2021

Wikipedia "Catholic Church in Ireland" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church_in_Ireland 2/04/2021