Defining Elements of Celtic Music

Part of what gives Celtic music its unique sound is the instruments it uses. Among these are the fiddle, wooden flute, other string instruments like the harp or mandolin, and a frame drum for percussion.

An intimate live performance of Irish folk song "A Chailin Àlainn"

Celtic music is also easily recognizable because of its song structure and lyrical content. There are two major varieties of traditional Celtic songs; narrative storytelling (usually a sad story) songs, and drinking songs.