Date

6-17-2026

Department

School of Music

Degree

Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology (MA)

Chair

Michael Harland

Keywords

Irish Music, Irish American Music, Celtic Music, Music and Emotion, Irish American

Disciplines

Music

Abstract

This research study investigates the emotional connection and interest in Irish music within the Irish musician community in America. The background for this study includes an in-depth look at the history of Irish and Irish music culture in America, as well as a brief overview of the connection between music and emotions. The study itself was conducted in various locations where there was live Irish music playing. Through the use of personal interviews and an emotional evaluation scale, participants were asked to recount their first encounters with Irish music and the emotional connection they feel because of and while playing Irish music. The outcome of the study overwhelmingly identified community as a large factor for continued interest and emotional buyin for musicians who play Irish music, as well as a strong connection to the music itself, due to the nature of the music, that is, the overall feel of the genre for listeners and musicians. Finally, conclusions drawn from the study are discussed, and recommendations for future investigation are posed.

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