A process of change in the teaching and learning of traditional music performance in Ennis, Co. Clare 1961-1980 (Pre-published version)

Abstract

Ennis, Co. Clare is now considered to be one of the principal strongholds of traditional Irish music practice in the world. However prior to 1961, the music practice in the town appears to have been limited to a few musicians, many of whom had roots in rural areas. A history of unbroken effective teaching has contributed to this transformation since then. This paper addresses the emergence of the formalisation of the transmission of traditional music through educational means i.e. the setting up of the first institutionally led class in 17/4/1961. I will examine the conditions which led to it; looking at the ideological foundations which underpinned the introduction of this formal structure, focussing principally on the institutional bodies through which it occurred; namely the Clare Vocational Education Committee and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. Since then there has been a steady increase in the number of and the diversity of class contexts in order to meet the demands of growing student numbers and the broader changes in society. I will trace the connections between it and subsequent classes in Ennis and its hinterland, considering how it contributed to the reshaping of the identity of Ennis, from being a place largely devoid of traditional music to becoming a place internationally known and recognised as a major hub of the tradition.