Watch Living the Tradition: An Enchanting Journey into Old Irish Airs

Living the Tradition: An Enchanting Journey into Old Irish Airs is a documentary film that takes its audience on a fascinating and informative exploration of Ireland's musical heritage, focusing on the traditional tunes and melodies that have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries. The film features prominent Irish musicians Siobhan Armstrong, Matt Cranitch, and Ilse de Ziah, who guide viewers through the rich history and intricate nuances of Irish music.

As the film begins, we are immediately struck by the stunning natural beauty of the Irish landscape, which serves as a perfect backdrop for the enchanting melodies that will soon follow. We are then introduced to Siobhan Armstrong, who plays the harp, an instrument that has a long and storied history in Irish music. Siobhan gives us an overview of the harp's significance in Irish culture, and demonstrates a few basic techniques that are essential to playing this ancient instrument.

From there, the film delves into the heart of Irish music, exploring the various types of tunes and rhythms that make up this rich and diverse musical tradition. We hear from Matt Cranitch, a renowned fiddle player who has dedicated his life to studying and performing Irish music. Matt takes us on a journey through the history of the fiddle in Irish music, tracing its evolution from its early days as a purely functional instrument to its current status as a vital and beloved part of the Irish musical tradition.

Throughout the film, we also hear from Ilse de Ziah, a talented singer who specializes in the sean-nós style of singing, which is characterized by its use of unaccompanied, ornamental melodies. Ilse shares her insights on this unique style of singing, describing the various techniques and nuances that are required to craft a truly beautiful sean-nós melody.

One of the most captivating aspects of Living the Tradition is the way it brings to life the stories and legends that are woven into the fabric of Irish music. We learn about the origins of some of Ireland's most beloved traditional tunes, and hear tales of the musicians who first composed and played them. We also learn about the various influences that have shaped Irish music over the centuries, including the arrival of the Celts in ancient times, and the more recent impact of English and Scottish musical traditions.

Another highlight of the film is the way it showcases the incredible talent and skill of its featured musicians. Through a series of intimate performances, we see Siobhan, Matt, and Ilse bring these ancient melodies to life, using their instruments and voices to create a truly magical and captivating musical experience. Whether playing a soaring harp melody, a lively fiddle tune, or a haunting sean-nós ballad, these talented musicians demonstrate not only their technical proficiency but also their deep love and respect for the music they play.

Overall, Living the Tradition: An Enchanting Journey into Old Irish Airs is a captivating and informative documentary that provides a window into the rich and vibrant tradition of Irish music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Irish music or a newcomer to this fascinating musical genre, this film is sure to leave you feeling inspired and enchanted. With its stunning scenery, captivating stories, and beautiful performances, Living the Tradition is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of Ireland's musical heritage.

Living the Tradition: An Enchanting Journey into Old Irish Airs is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.