McNeela House Dance Anglo Concertina Music Book - 19th Century Social Dance Tunes - Schottisches Polkas Waltzes McNeela Music

Description

Discover the rich history and vibrant music of the Anglo-German concertina with "House Dance" by Dan M Worrall, an essential irish song book for anyone interested in irish session tunes and the golden age of 19th-century social dancing. This comprehensive volume delves deep into the musical traditions that defined the house dance era, exploring schottisches, polkas, quadrilles, waltzes, and barn dances that were the heart of community gatherings from the 1860s to World War I. "House Dance" is more than just a collection of tunes; it's a meticulously researched exploration of the instrument and the people who played it, offering invaluable insights for musicians seeking to recreate the authentic sound of the past. If you're searching for o'neills music of ireland or the irish fiddle book for inspiration, this book provides a fascinating parallel with its focus on the concertina's role in Irish, English, Australian, and South African dance repertoires. Imagine yourself at a lively barn dance in the late 1800s, the air filled with the spirited melodies of a concertina. This book brings that experience to life, detailing the old-style octave playing technique that characterized the era's most celebrated players. For those eager to learn, a nine-lesson tutorial is included, guiding you through playing the Anglo concertina in the historical house dance style, making it an ideal resource for both aspiring and experienced musicians. Beyond the music, "House Dance" offers compelling biographies of early concertina players from four continents, shedding light on their lives and unique playing styles. It also addresses the historical context, including the eventual banning of house dances in twentieth-century Ireland, providing a complete picture of this cultural phenomenon. For musicians interested in replicating the authentic sound of early concertina playing, this book is an indispensable guide. It includes QR code links to 172 archival recordings of 36 early concertina players, allowing you to hear the music come alive and study the nuances of their performances. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who appreciate the raw, unadorned beauty of old-style octave playing. Whether you are a concertina enthusiast, a folk music historian, or a dancer looking to understand the origins of traditional social dances, "House Dance" offers a wealth of information. It's a perfect companion for anyone seeking to expand their repertoire of irish session tunes or explore the global sources of 19th-century dance music. This book is a must-have for anyone passionate about the Anglo-German concertina and its significant contribution to social music history, serving as a bridge to the past for modern musicians.