Introduction
The evolution of Scottish and Irish songs over the centuries is a fascinating journey through time that reflects broader cultural and social changes. From the classical styles of singers like Kenneth McKellar and John McCormack to the more modern pub music style associated with Eddie Reader, the transformation of these songs provides insight into the values and tastes of different eras.
Robert Burns: A Man of His Time
Robert Burns, a renowned figure in Scottish literature, is often celebrated for his contributions to the world of poetry and song. However, it is important to note that Burns did not collect songs; he wrote them. His works were intended to be enjoyed in a variety of settings, especially in the local pub, where folksong remained a vital part of Scottish cultural life. This is a stark contrast to the often gentrified and classically trained interpretations that came later.
Cecil Sharpe: Collector of Songs, Not a Performer
While Burns wrote his songs with the intention of them being sung in local settings, Cecil Sharpe, a prominent English folklorist, was primarily involved in the collection and preservation of traditional songs. Sharpe's efforts were crucial in documenting these musical traditions, but his role as a collector does not directly align with Burns' original intent for his songs.
The Classical Style of Kenneth McKellar and John McCormack
Kenneth McKellar and John McCormack are notable examples of singers who performed Scottish and Irish songs in the classical style. These performers, who received extensive training in opera, brought a refined and formal approach to traditional folk music. Their performances were often associated with the middle and upper classes, who valued musical styles that reflected their social status.
The Rise of Pub Music Style
Today, many Scottish and Irish songs are performed in the pub music style, most prominently associated with Eddie Reader. This contemporary approach emphasizes the more informal and conversational nature of folk music, reflecting the natural and unrefined qualities of songs sung in local pubs and homes. This style offers a stark contrast to the classical interpretations of the past, capturing a more democratized and inclusive approach to traditional music.
The Reason for Robert Burns' Disapproval
Given Robert Burns' love for a pint and his desire for his songs to be sung in pubs, it's likely he would not have approved of the attempts by Cecil Sharpe and others to gentrify his songs. These efforts, while well-intentioned, may have altered the essence of the songs, distancing them from their original rustic and communal roots.
The Cultural Shift of the Early 1900s
The early 1900s witnessed a significant cultural shift in Ireland, as the country's national identity began to take shape. The middle class sought to demonstrate that Irish people could achieve the same level of cultural refinement as their English neighbors. This led to a preference for classically trained singers like John McCormack, whose performances were seen as a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
Black Performers in the 1930s
A similar cultural shift can be observed in the United States during the 1930s, where African American performers like Marian Anderson and Paul Robeson were performing in a manner that reflected a cultivated and culturally refined image. These performers were representing their race and needed to appear as cultivated and as good as anyone else.
The Continued Presence of Traditional Music in Irish Pub Culture
While the pub music style has become more popular, the traditional instrumental music and informal singing that were prominent in pubs and rural homes have persisted. These forms of music have not only survived but have also continued to evolve, reflecting the ongoing vitality and adaptation of traditional Irish and Scottish culture.
Conclusion
Robert Burns' music has stood the test of time, adapted to different eras and performance styles. The evolution from classical to pub music reflects broader cultural and social changes, but the essence of these songs remains rooted in the traditions and values of the people who sang them. Whether sung in the formal style of Kenneth McKellar and John McCormack or in the more informal and conversational style of Eddie Reader, these songs continue to captivate and inspire, connecting us to the cultural heritage of Scotland and Ireland.