Exploring the Use of Irish Flute Technique and Interpretation in Classical Performance (2014)

Undergraduate: Kieran McCarthy Fell

Faculty Advisor: Brooks Smith
Department: Music

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Irish traditional (trad) music is important to daily life, with tunes that have been passed down through generations. This constantly-evolving tradition is woven into the country¿s history, and frequent sessions (informal performances) in close-knit communities keep the vibrant music alive. As a flute performance major, most of my training has been in classical settings, but I eagerly absorb musical influences from varied sources.

My goals were

1.) To take trad flute lessons, hoping to learn what teachers consider essential to impart

2.) To visit exhibits in museums and community culture centers, looking for connections between music and history

3.) To listen to sessions in uniquely Irish settings such as culture centers and local pubs in assorted counties, aiming to discover whether embellishments and interpretation of tunes vary by region

4.) To explore ways in which Irish and classical flute methods intersect and diverge, hoping to add new depth to my classical playing.

My time in Ireland made me fully aware of how powerful its music is, despite its apparent simplicity. The intuition and originality of individual players produce vital music characterized by a joy and abandon in the quick tunes that contrast with the aching depth of the slow airs. My continuing goals include imbuing my classical playing with similar emotional accessibility, connecting more closely to the pieces I study, and conveying that connection to an audience.