The Irish Traditional Music Archive (ITMA) is committed to providing free, universal access to the rich cultural tradition of Irish music, song and dance. If you’re able, we’d love for you to consider a donation. Any level of support will help us preserve and grow this tradition for future generations.
My grandfather, Tom Cahill (my mom’s father), played the fiddle. I heard him play when we went to Ireland for the first time in 1962. By 1967, when we went for the second time, I was able to play along with him. He played hearty music in that West Limerick / Kerry style–with his bowing and his feel. I’ve always loved slides and polkas, and I know this is why… they’re like home to me.
I enjoyed writing this one.