24 pieces by the celebrated blind Irish harper and composer Turlough O'Carolan (1670 - 1738). His music is the most popular ever composed for the harp in Ireland. It affords a great deal of scope to the creativity of the performer, since only Carolan's melodies survive. This recording consists of original arrangements of these beautiful tunes, informed by Máire's knowledge both of the native Irish harp tradition and of baroque forms. "A masterpiece of virtuosity... A must for any folk-related collection." - The Daily Telegraph "If Máire Ní Chathasaigh wasn't around, Irish harping would be so much the poorer... Her work restores the harp to its true voice." - The Irish Times "Máire is the foremost modern interpreter of Carolan." - Taplas "A magnificent collection from two superlative musicians... in a plethora of Carolan records, this is the best." - Folk On Tap
S**K
Lovely harp and guitar playing
The harper and guitarist play this 17th century Irish harp music very sensitively.For interest, a neighbour in Kirkwall, Orkney aged over 80 delighted in the discovery of these tunes (or songs). On the Internet he bought himself a solo harper's performance of Carolan. He has a wide taste in music. Having worked for the Royal Soc. for the Protection of Birds for many years, birdsong is popular with him. But a find (in Germany) was a cassette of an ancient bone flute, more than 3,000 years old, maybe a lot more ancient I forget. And he likes the more pop side of Maxwell Davies's Orkney music specially "Farewell to Stromness"/Yesnaby Ground (piano).His wife tends to make coffee/cakes for listeners but I'd say she shares his liking of Carolan's Irish tunes.
A**R
Perfect Rendition of Carolan's music
Very tasteful and highly skilled musicians
R**R
Review One
I already had a CD by Maire Ni Chathasaigh and Chris Newman I got from our local Arts Centre and this one was an extra to add to my collection. I enjoyed it a great deal, though they are very different on a CD to being present for a live performance.
N**S
The Best O'Carolan recording ever
I love it ! I have had this recording for years..Wanting to share /give it to my nine year old granddaughter, i needed another copy.
D**E
Best Carolan album I've heard
The pairing of harp and guitar works really well, the tunes are just lovely as is their playing. I think Derek Bell's Carolan album is probably good, but this is longer and has more tunes
A**N
Beautiful!
Lovely music.
M**D
The Carolan Album
Originally issued as two albums, this CD represents very good value for money, featuring all the well known Carolan tunes plus some of the lasser known ones. The combination of harp and acoustic guitar, both played immaculately, is perfect for this gentle and evocative music, and this recording is the best performance of Carolan's works I've heard. Highly recommended.
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