Traditional Music of Ireland
![Picture](/uploads/2/4/9/4/24941365/9109361.jpg?184)
Celtic music appeared in Ireland with the Celts almost two thousand years ago. Although Celtic music also appeared in Scotland and other parts of Western Europe, it is most usually associated with Ireland. The history of Celtic music before reaching Western Europe is largely a mystery, due to the culture's reliance on oral tradition. One of the most common Celtic instruments is the harp, which is believed to have been developed near Egypt before the Celts moved west. The style also relies on fiddles, flutes, and cellos.
Photo from: http://www.brendanneeson.com/harps.html
Photo from: http://www.brendanneeson.com/harps.html
Classroom Implementation
One of the instruments most commonly used in Celtic music is the harp. A great way to teach kids about Celtic music is to have them make and play their own harps. The materials required are minimal, and inexpensive. It is sure to be a hit with young students. Find a tutorial here: http://www.ehow.com/how_10055430_make-harp-children.html
To take it a step further, you could also ask students to choose a few Celtic designs to glue onto the sides of their harps for decoration, to represent the intricate carving that many authentic harps have.
To take it a step further, you could also ask students to choose a few Celtic designs to glue onto the sides of their harps for decoration, to represent the intricate carving that many authentic harps have.