The Big Book of Irish Songs : Book Review

"The Big Book of Irish Songs" is a delightful compilation of traditional Irish tunes curated by various authors. With over 100 songs, this comprehensive book showcases the diverse musical heritage of Ireland, offering a treasure trove for anyone interested in exploring Irish music.

The organization of the book is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Each song includes complete lyrics and musical notation, allowing readers to both play and sing along. From moving ballads to energetic jigs, the book encompasses a wide range of well-known melodies that appeal to a variety of musical tastes.

What sets this book apart is the inclusion of historical notes and background information for each song. These insights provide readers with a deeper understanding of the lyrics, allowing them to fully appreciate the meaning and significance behind the music. Whether readers are avid music enthusiasts or history buffs, these additional details add context and enhance the overall reading experience.

For musicians, the book also features guitar chords for each song, catering to players of all skill levels. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned guitarist, the clear and accurate chord diagrams serve as a helpful guide to accompany your singing. Additionally, the book includes indexes by title and first line, making it easy to find your favorite songs or discover new ones.

In conclusion, "The Big Book of Irish Songs" is a fantastic collection that captures the essence of Irish music. Its comprehensive repertoire, combined with the historical and musical background information, makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Irish culture or eager to expand their song selection. Whether you're singing solo or with a group, this book is sure to bring the joyful spirit of Ireland into your home.

What are readers saying?

The compilation of The Big Book of Irish Songs, by Various authors, has received a mixed response from readers. A considerable number of reviewers appreciated the extensive selection of Irish songs in the book. They considered it a comprehensive collection that beautifully showcased the diversity and richness of traditional Irish music. The inclusion of well-known classics allowed readers to connect with their Irish heritage and sing along, while the discovery of lesser-known songs introduced them to new favorites.

On the other hand, there were readers who expressed disappointment with certain aspects of the book. They found the arrangements and notation challenging to follow, particularly for beginner musicians. Additionally, some reviewers noted the absence of accompanying sheet music or guitar tabs, which would have made it easier to play the songs. The organization of the book also received criticism, with some readers finding it lacking a logical or cohesive structure, making it difficult to locate specific pieces. Furthermore, a few reviewers mentioned that the font size and formatting of the book were not ideal, affecting the readability of the lyrics and music.

Despite these criticisms, many readers praised The Big Book of Irish Songs for its cultural significance and nostalgic appeal. They found joy in singing these beloved Irish tunes and appreciated the opportunity to share them with loved ones. The book was also recognized as a valuable resource for Irish musicians and singers seeking to expand their repertoire.

In summary, The Big Book of Irish Songs presents a wide array of traditional Irish music. While some readers appreciated the cultural significance of the songs and the diversity of the collection, others were dissatisfied with certain aspects, such as the arrangements and lack of sheet music. The organization and formatting of the book also received criticism. Nonetheless, many readers found the book to be a valuable resource for exploring and celebrating Irish music.