Cultural Coherence: Language and Music

The Irish Flag.

The official language of Ireland is English, but a small percentage of native Irishmen and women speak Irish (Gaelic/Irish-Gaelic). This language originates from Ireland is a member of the Indo-European language family. It is considered an official language of the European nation and hold significant symbolic status for the country and its history.

FUN FACT: There is no definitive "yes" or "no"  in the Gaelic language.

As in any culture, Ireland's residents have particular ways of using this language which is unique to their society. They are known as eloquent, friendly speakers who value modesty and maintain a general distrust for those who tend to brag. Manners are significant while communicating to Irishmen and women, and acts such as giving firm handshakes, maintaining eye contact, and warmth are key in proper communication. Irish business-people are more informal and friendly than many other European countries, because they tend to offer more relaxed, comfortable settings. Overall, the culture appears to value politeness more than brutal honesty. Irishmen and women usually avoid conflict and confrontation, and prefer to communicate through humor and good nature. 

River Dance serves an important cultural function in Ireland.

Music also plays a key role in Irish culture. Traditional Irish music include the use of instruments such as the Irish drum, the fiddle, the flute, and the Uilleann pipes. Irish music tells stories through its melodies and lyrics, and because story-telling is an important aspect of Irish culture, music serves as an outlet for this communication. Popular music ranges from traditional to Celtic/Irish rock, and River Dance has become a significant form of dance throughout the country, possibly due to its fast pace and complexity.

The following video demonstrates traditional Irish music from a Celtic Fiddle Festival and some of the stunning scenery of the country.

Sources:

Kwintessential.  (n.d.).  Ireland - Language, Culture, Customs, and Etiquette.  Retrieved from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/ireland.html

Donnchadha, S.  (n.d.).  Music Culture in Ireland.  Retrieved from http://www.yourirish.com/culture/music/

Hendicott, J.  (n.d.).  Irish-flag.  Retrieved from http://hendicottwriting.com/travel/blog/ireland2/irish-flag-2/

Sundresslady.  (2012, May 8).  Music Session 1 [video file].  Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hi9Ju_qz1Hk 

Weddington, F.  (2010, April 27).  [Riverdance].  Retrieved from http://cltampa.com/dailyloaf/archives/2010/04/27/do-it-today-riverdance-at-ruth-eckerd-free-std-testing-and-a-fresh-market#.UTvZERy1eAg