I know many readers share my enjoyment of Celtic folk music, which is generally understood to include Scotland and Ireland. However, there's another branch of it, namely the music of Breton (Brittany) in France. It's just across the English Channel from Britain, and many Celts crossed between the two nations during the prolonged wars they waged against each other. Breton Celtic music is every bit as interesting as the "mainline" British Celtic tradition.
I've chosen the music of Kornog, a now-defunct Breton folk music group, to illustrate the field. There are many others out there, including the successor group to Kornog, Pennoù Skoulm. You'll find lots of examples on YouTube.
Let's start with what is probably Kornog's best-known song, "Jesuitmont". A word of warning: this is based on medieval tales of an evil queen killing her own children and serving them as food to her husband, because she believes he loves them more than her. Not for the squeamish.
Next, "Thessaloniki taxi".
This song describes the Battle of Sheriffmuir in 1715, claimed as a victory by both sides.
And finally, a slow, meditative dance medley, "Air Pour Faire Pleurer La Mariee/Gavottes".
Celtic music delivers all sorts of variety in unexpected ways. Kornog rode that wave. You'll find more of their music on YouTube.
Peter
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