Seinn Dùthchasach / Seann Nòs
(Indigenous Gaelic Singing Styles) Some of you have written to ask what the definition of 'seann nos' singing is. Well now, that certainly is a loaded question, but I'll do my very best to help. The following will refer to indigenous/regional Gaelic singing styles and not the general performance of a Gaelic song:- Firstly, the term 'seann nos', means 'old way/style', although this doesn't sufficiently describe our traditional, regional Gaelic singing styles. The term 'seann nòs' is relatively new and I think I would be right in saying that it was coined in Ireland around the middle or early 20th century. The word 'seann' (old), suggests that it is no longer current and that it is something which has died out or is old-fashioned. I prefer to use the term 'seinn dùthchasach' (indigenous / traditional / culturally rooted style of singing), although I admit that it may not trip off the tongue too easily! However, I feel it best describes this form of singing, which has been passed down via aural/oral transmission for hundreds of years, but which is still as relevant today as it was in the past. Although becoming rare, there is still a living and unbroken tradition of singing in distinctive regional styles in some areas of Gaelic Scotland. Singing a Gaelic song in a classical or contemporary style (Americana, Country, Jazz, Rock, fusion etc.) is very different to singing the same song in a regional seann nòs (style). While many singers can perform a Gaelic song quite beautifully, if they learn the words and tune well enough, and many are even able to imitate some of the traditional styles to a degree, singing in an authentic indigenous style which has developed within the singer's own area/family/culture for hundreds of years, is a much more complex form of singing altogether; it is full of nuances of language and style, melisma, rhythmic shifts and pitch shifts which can too often be lost on singers who were not reared with it. I like to compare it to one's lingustic accent, which is a STYLE of speaking which one soaks in subliminally, it was not specifically taught and is practiced naturally, without plan or thought. It is the same for seinn dùthchasach - it is a SINGING ACCENT, if you will. There are many and varied regional Gaelic singing styles, and also many forms of ornamentation within those styles, which can be found in the nòs of Gaelic regions stretching from the Butt of Lewis, in the Hebrides, down to the tip of Co. Kerry in Ireland. The authentic way to perform 'seinn dùthchasach', is unaccompanied (a-capella), from memory, never from a written score. The natural Gaelic speech within the poetry should always take precedence over the melody. The melody should always be fluid in order that the language rhythms are never compromised or distorted and the technical quality of the voice is never as important in these regional styles as it is in classical singing. The song text (the poetry), holds the most prominent position and if the text cannot be understood or is marred by such things as unclear diction, faulty pronunciation, broken phrases or even unsympathetic accompaniment then, to the ear of the Gael, the entire performance is compromised. There has been a lot of influence on Gaelic singing styles from other cultures and this is now beginning to influence audience appreciation of the genre. Having a tuneful, natural voice and an uncontrived regional singing style is crucial. The essence and beauty of good seann-nòs singing is its totally untrained, natural, free and relaxed quality. Authentic singers are completely comfortable with their language, their song and their singing style; having been exposed to it and nurtured in it, within their homes or communities, since childhood, and these performances rarely have a contrived feel to them. For a performer to suggest that they are a 'traditional Gaelic singer' by merely singing a song which is generally accepted as being from the traditional canon is misleading. There is a LOT more to it than that. The stress pattern of the Gaelic poetry in the song should dictate the rhythm and use of the basic melody, so that no two verses are alike, with regard to note values. Rhythmic freedom is one of the most important aspects of traditional Gaelic singing and is the one least understood by those not brought up with it. Nowadays, with so many Gaelic songs being accompanied by musical instruments, the rhythmic freedom can often be the most frustrating for any accompanying musician who is unfamiliar with the genre. With fewer opportunities to hear true traditional singing, in the remaining Gaelic communities, younger singers should therefore take time to seek out older traditional singers to listen to and learn from. Archive recordings are now easily accessible from the likes of the Tobar an Dualchais online database, and these can help singers to familiarise themselves with songs in their own regional style. Care should be taken, however, about learning from these archive recordings without the help of a mentor who is familiar with the songs and styles, as nuances of pronunciation, style and phrasing could be lost on novices. I would always advise singers to fully digest the text of the song before marrying it with the melody. In this way it is hoped that the nòs, phrasing, word stresses, assonance etc would be fully understood and appreciated. This should make an enormous difference to how a young singer will eventually communicate the song to their audience. There has been a tendency, over a number of years, for singers to be heavily influenced by regularity of rhythm, and even native Gaelic speakers are now subject to this trend. Some singers can be seen playing out the rhythm with their hands and/or fingers, while singing the song, keeping it in a strict rhythm. This often shows a lack of familiarity with the traditional free style and the all important language rhythms; giving the performance a very contrived quality. Ornamentation The tempo of a song may also vary according to the degree of ornamentation used. In the Scottish Gàidhealtachd, melismatic singing is much more pronounced in Lewis and in Harris, but nowadays there are fewer singers who ornament naturally and effortlessly in the traditional style. However, some singers, wherever they come from, feel that ornamentation is a requisite of any traditional singing; this, unfortunately, results in the introduction of a very artificial form of ornamentation in some performances. Affected, excessive or peculiar embellishments / ornamentation are unpleasant to listen to and add nothing to a sean-nòs performance, indeed they totally strip it of its traditional 'nòs' and should be avoided at all costs. A style of singing which has been nurtured since childhood will always sound natural and will stand the test of time. A true traditional singer, brought up with melismatic singing, will never think about when or where to embellish notes, it will be as natural to them as breathing or as natural as their accent (as mentioned above). When a singer is brought up with an indigenous singing style their performance of a song will always sound natura, but as so little true 'seinn dùchasach' is now heard in our Gaelic communities, younger singers often have to learn their songs from commercial recordings which, although attractive in sound and quality, are too often based on techniques and styles outwith their own region and culture, and are usually from a variety of sources, with many singers now adopting mainstream jazz, blues, rock and pop styles within their performance. This shows that the emphasis is more on pleasing a non-Gàidhealach audience than on respecting the song or the traditional genre. There is an element of the inferiority complex in this trend and suggests that some Gaelic song performers require to be validated by those from outside the culture before they feel comfortable about their own performance. The danger in this is that the fickle nature of fashions and trends will render them ignorant of the true roots of the songs they perform, and they will certainly be unable to perform them authentically and/or pass them on to a younger generation. What then of the unbroken chain ? Free Rhythm Another phenomenon attached to traditional Gaelic singing is that the singer will often make changes in the song each time it is sung. I know I do this myself, through my ornamentation or by subconciously making other slight changes in the melody notes. It will depend on how one feels at the time, on one's familiarity with the song, on the atmosphere, on how relaxed one is, or on the state of one's voice at the time. Musical Accompaniment Insensitive musical accompaniment has certainly had an adverse effect on the performance of traditional Gaelic song over the past 70 years or so. Songs which should be unrestricted in their rhythm are often forced into measured time because of unsympathetic musical arrangements, and possibly the intimidating tactics of instrumentalists who are unfamiliar with the genre and who force singers to alter or distort the natural linguistic rhythms within a song. When Gaelic songs that are naturally free in rhythm are forced into a strict, and what is in fact an alien rhythm, many of the Gaelic words are stretched out unnaturally, poetic phrases are broken and the entire performance loses authenticity, particularly for the informed listener. Too often the meanings of the words are altered by the distortions of rhythm created by thoughtless instrumental accompaniment. I should add, however, that there are many accomplished musicians who are extremely adept and sensitive to the nuances of traditional singing styles (many of whom I've had the pleasure of working with) and who go out of their way to ensure that the song text is given due respect and that the singer is happy with their accompaniment. For those of us 'of a certain vintage', who were brought up in Gaelic speaking communities, local or regional singing was a part of our cultural landscape - it was always there and a constant in our lives, just as our language was. I am painfully aware that, nowadays, young people in the Highlands and Islands do not have this luxury and that their main exposure to Gaelic singing is through the medium of social media, CDs, videos, television, and large festivals, which too often marginalise or even exclude the most traditional performances. Traditional singing, within communities, and performed in an informal and relaxed manner is becoming frighteningly rare. I hope the above highlights the fragile state of traditional Gaelic singing (not to be confused with 'traditional' songs) in the 21st century, and the need to keep these precious living traditions alive within Gaelic speaking communities. I hope the blog encourages debate, and I would welcome any questions or feedback. (please use the contact form). To finish, I'd like to quote Sorley MacLean; Gaelic songs - "the songs in which ineffable melodies rise like exhaltations from the rhythms and resonances of the words, the songs that alone make the thought that the Gaelic language is going to die so intolerable to anyone who knows Gaelic, and has in the least degree the sensibility that responds to the marriage, or rather the simultaneous creation, of words and music. It may be that a great piper without Gaelic can play pibroch supremely; it may even be that a great singer without Gaelic can be coached into a great performance of one of those songs; but it is CERTAIN that no one who does not know Gaelic can really hear one of those songs. I am convinced that Scottish Gaelic song is the chief artistic glory of the Scots, and of all people of Celtic speech, and one of the greatest artistic glories of Europe. I have been of this opinion for nearly 40 years, I have reiterated it ad nauseum, and now I am more convinced of its validity than I have ever been".
75 Comments
29/7/2013 04:45:15 am
Traditional Gaealic songs are a great treat for our ears. They are the most meaning full songs among the folk songs. The meanings do have other hidden knowledge base within them. My information on these songs is broadened by your article. Thanks a lot for sharing this page.
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9/10/2013 11:32:35 pm
At times the meanings of the words are altered due to distortions of rhythms to match thoughtless instrumental accompaniment.
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19/5/2014 08:28:01 am
Great article! I loved the insight and advice given. In addition, your article writing style is very fun to read. If you have time please check out my new webpage and let me know what you think.
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19/3/2017 02:47:19 pm
Hi Margaret, thanks for this post. It has articulated something I have been trying to find elsewhere. Have you written more on seinn duthchasach?
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21/3/2017 07:27:25 am
Pretty helpful material, much thanks for this article
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21/3/2017 08:01:28 am
My friend recommended this blog and he was totally right keep up the good work
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Kate McLaren
7/9/2017 12:52:58 pm
How disappointing to see that most of the comments aren't really comments at all. Wondering how on earth (and why!) they found their way to this blog.
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7/9/2017 01:48:28 pm
Dear Karen,
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Kate McLaren
7/9/2017 04:33:08 pm
How nice of you to respond, and I do see what you mean. And it's certainly true that I don't entirely appreciate traditional song unless it is also beautifully presented to a modern (-ish) ear, as it is by you and Ishbel and Cathy-Ann and...
Dòmhnall Briggs
30/8/2021 01:15:14 pm
A Mhaighread.
Hermann
15/9/2017 12:00:01 pm
Hi Margaret,
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Kate McLaren
15/9/2017 03:48:50 pm
I'm pleased to see that this thread has been revived as it's really interesting. I'd also like recommendations from you, a Mhaighread - I listen to a lot of Gaelic song and am not sure how to classify it all! I assume Cathy-Ann MacPhee comes under the heading of sean nos? Christine Primrose? James Graham? How about the Mackenzie sisters? I presume you wouldn't include any bands...MacTalla, Cruinn...how about choirs?
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16/9/2017 07:29:18 pm
Hi 10/11/2017 02:47:19 pm
Gaelic songs have something special that no other music does. I think younger generations should listen to this and learn about their roots.
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16/3/2018 11:48:21 am
Gaelic songs are great, I think it's up to us to keep them alive and share them with as many people as possible.
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Andrew Stone
19/3/2018 09:55:26 am
Fascinating piece, it could also be a description of the problems faced with modern interpretations of blues and swing music, which in the traditional context also have free rhythm and flexible interpretation
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Pádraig Morgan
7/7/2018 06:06:08 am
This article is a distillation of what defines sean nós/seinn dùchasach singing that should be required reading for everyone, Gaedheal or Gall, who is interested in this ancient art. Míle buíochas, a Mhaighréad.
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Hilary NicPhaidein
8/9/2018 12:55:08 am
I sang for the first time at the Mòd nan Lochan Mòra in Akron, Ohio this past June. Margaret's comments about sean-nòs are invaluable to me as a beginner singer who wants to do justice to Gaelic poetry/song.
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4/2/2020 02:54:31 pm
Thanks for sharing your knowledge about this thing. You are indeed an amazing teacher!
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4/2/2020 02:59:00 pm
You make me want to learn of all these things!
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15/8/2024 10:14:56 am
Thanks for this informative blog and for allowing us to share our thoughts.
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21/2/2023 05:41:03 am
I'm really surprised by the fact that you are well versed in this theme! not only do you sing and speak this ancient touge but you also know a lot about it's history! I would like to recommend you my favorite HVAC in gainesville florida
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22/2/2023 03:04:59 pm
Traditional Irish singing is the singing of traditional songs in the native styles such as sean nós. Though some people consider sean nós to particularly refer to singing in the Irish language, the term 'traditional singing' is more universally understood to encompass singing in any language, as well as lilting.
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17/5/2023 12:26:35 pm
Thank you so much for writing about this matter. I believe a lot of people has been looking forward to have this published.
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17/5/2023 04:06:56 pm
Gaelic singing is a cherished art form that has been passed down through generations. It continues to thrive today, with dedicated singers and enthusiasts keeping the tradition alive and ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
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The passage expresses a deep appreciation for Gaelic songs and the profound connection between the melodies and the language itself. It emphasizes that truly experiencing and understanding these songs requires knowledge of the Gaelic language. The author believes that Scottish Gaelic songs are not only a significant artistic achievement for the Scots and Celtic people but also hold a place among the greatest artistic glories of Europe. This opinion has been reiterated for many years and remains steadfast in the author's conviction.
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3/7/2023 12:11:57 pm
The preservation of traditional Gaelic singing is crucial in Gaelic-speaking communities. With the decline of opportunities to hear true traditional singing, younger singers must make an effort to learn from older singers and familiarize themselves with their regional styles. Traditional singing performed within communities and in an informal and relaxed manner is becoming increasingly rare.
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6/7/2023 02:23:57 pm
Authentic seann nòs singing is deeply rooted in the singer's regional style, which has developed over centuries. It encompasses nuances of language and style, including melisma, rhythmic shifts, and pitch shifts specific to each Gaelic region. The rhythmic freedom in traditional Gaelic singing is often misunderstood by those not familiar with the tradition, especially when accompanied by instruments.
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21/7/2023 01:18:23 am
It's a privilege to witness this in live performance.
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5/12/2023 09:48:21 pm
I'm glad to know that this tradition is still alive.
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20/2/2024 02:11:13 pm
What are the traditional Irish singing techniques?
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20/2/2024 11:25:15 pm
It seems like you're sharing a link about traditional Gaelic singing. That sounds fascinating! Are you interested in discussing anything specific about Gaelic singing or the content of the link?
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21/2/2024 02:00:14 pm
I wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation for the authentic voice that permeates your blog. The sincerity and genuineness in your writing create a connection that goes beyond the screen. It's clear that you're not just sharing information; you're sharing a part of yourself.
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22/2/2024 12:37:55 am
"While 'seann nos' translates to 'old way,' it may unintentionally imply something outdated or fading. Perhaps a more accurate term, especially considering its continued relevance, is 'seinn dùthchasach,' meaning 'indigenous/traditional/culturally rooted style of singing.' T
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23/2/2024 07:10:11 pm
Thank you for your dedication to preserving and promoting this treasured aspect of Gaelic culture, and for sharing your knowledge and passion with others. Your blog serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of traditional Gaelic singing and its enduring significance.
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28/2/2024 01:15:45 pm
While traditional Gaelic singing holds immense cultural significance, it faces challenges in the modern world. The decline of the Gaelic language and the dominance of mainstream music threaten the preservation of this ancient tradition.
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29/2/2024 09:14:14 pm
Thanks for bringing justice to traditional gaelic singing. You're awesome!
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7/3/2024 10:26:05 pm
I like to know more about the traditional Gaelic Singing and how it all organized. You have the best detail that help us to learn more about these events.
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11/3/2024 01:05:19 pm
This page is proving to be an invaluable resource, so I'm going to bookmark it for future reference. I'll definitely be revisiting it whenever I need reliable information. Thank you for providing such valuable content!
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21/3/2024 03:19:54 am
Your posts are consistently refreshing and offer valuable insights. I love reading your informative content. Thanks for sharing it with us; it's wonderful.
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13/5/2024 06:24:47 am
Your article is good and informative. Thanks for sharing it.
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6/6/2024 07:08:48 pm
Gaelic singing, discovered a few decades ago, It's still being played today, and that makes me feel really good. It's wonderful to know that such a beautiful tradition continues to thrive!
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16/6/2024 07:45:10 am
Partly related to the latter point, radio, TV, and theatrical productions played a significant role in popularizing Gaelic songs and drawing attention from audiences outside of the Gàidhealtachd.
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20/6/2024 09:39:37 pm
This is an interesting approach. Love the amazing work. You rock!
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21/6/2024 05:33:51 am
Thank you for the update; we appreciate your attention to detail.
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26/6/2024 12:36:14 am
It's my pleasure to hear this traditional singing.
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2/7/2024 05:16:12 am
Your post is brilliant, and I value your commitment to sharing valuable content.
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5/7/2024 04:46:55 am
The visuals and images used in this blog enhance the reading experience. They're visually appealing.
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9/7/2024 08:03:05 am
Your article has aroused a lot of positive attention. That shows you have an insight to get great information.
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15/8/2024 09:29:56 am
Thanks for sharing this!
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19/8/2024 09:50:43 pm
Wow. I never thought that this kind of singing still exists.
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10/9/2024 09:34:07 pm
That's amazing news. Gaelic singing is a pride of this nation.
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4/10/2024 11:00:20 am
Your posts are always interesting and provide a lot of useful information. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us!
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7/10/2024 02:16:34 pm
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6/11/2024 06:35:18 pm
Traditional Gaelic singing, often referred to as seann nòs (meaning "old style") or more accurately seinn dùthchasach ("indigenous/traditional singing style"), is a deeply rooted Gaelic vocal tradition that is still alive in certain regions of Scotland and Ireland. While seann nòs is the more commonly used term, some traditionalists feel it implies that the style is outdated, whereas seinn dùthchasach emphasizes the cultural continuity and heritage of the style.
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12/11/2024 10:25:55 pm
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9/12/2024 12:14:51 am
Your blog serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of traditional Gaelic singing and its enduring significance
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14/12/2024 11:26:23 am
I love how you explained the depth of 'seann nòs' singing. It’s so interesting to think of it like a natural singing accent, where the rhythm and language truly take the lead. The way tradition still lives on through this style is something really special.
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20/12/2024 07:55:24 pm
This is a thoughtful explanation of seann nòs singing and its cultural significance.
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27/12/2024 09:21:40 pm
Only few could understand and appreciate the beauty of Gaelic Singing. It was wonderful.
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28/12/2024 02:51:50 pm
The way you combine insightful analysis with actionable takeaways significantly enhances its value. In summary, it’s an inspiring, informative piece that leaves a strong impact and exemplifies high-quality content in its field.
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4/2/2025 03:38:19 am
Wow. Interesting can you make a cover of the latest songs using gaelic style?
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5/2/2025 03:14:02 pm
This is a compelling and well-researched take on Gaelic singing traditions. A slight refinement in structure and clarity could make it even more engaging for a broader audience.
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7/2/2025 08:22:07 am
So, you're curious about "sean nós" singing? It's a great question, and honestly, it's a bit of a tricky one to answer simply, but I'll give it my best shot!
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Margaret
Award-winning Gaelic singer, folklorist and Gaelic Song Specialist from the Isle-of-Lewis, ArchivesCategories |