Toirdhealbhach Ó Cearbhalláin (1670 - 1738) was an itinerant Irish harper. After being blinded by smallpox, perhaps at the age of eighteen, Carolan was taught the harp for three years. Then, being given a horse and a guide, he set out to travel Ireland and compose songs for patrons. For almost fifty years, Carolan journeyed from one end of the country to the other, composing and performing his tunes. He became one of Ireland's most important composers, and his tunes form an important part of the traditional Irish repertoire.
He composed this tune for Colonel John Irwin (1680-1752) of Tanrego House, on Ballysodare Bay, in County Sligo, probably just after he came home from the war in Flanders.
A planxty is a tune written in thanks and appreciation to someone.
Now Malina, if you REALLY wanted to say "thanks", you'd write Planxty Velez. :) Haha!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, and thanks for commenting. It's nice to get feedback!