This paper will discuss the power of singing and song-making as a means of social, ethical and political expression spanning all levels of society.
The Phenomenon of Singing, 2013 International Symposium IX Proposed Paper
The Power of Song as the Voice of the People This paper will discuss the power of singing and song-making as a means of social, ethical and political expression spanning all levels of society. The introduction explains the traditional role of bards and minstrels in Ireland and Scotland. This is followed a summary of how these roles evolved over the centuries to the present day, with current song-makers, songs and singers reflecting the strength of ancient tradition. The power of song and singing will be discussed with specific reference to issues that not only have been kept alive by singers, but have stirred the collective consciousness of communities at all levels – local, national and international. The core of the paper will focus on the style and repertoire of a woodsman and farmer, Newfoundland-Irish singer Jerome Downey (b. 1924) from O’Regans. Highly regarded by his community as a singer and popular entertainer, yet little known outside of the Codroy Valley, Jerome was not only valued by local audiences for his outstandingly good voice, but also by song-makers who composed songs for him to sing. As most of their compositions were witty satires about local controversial issues, the songmakers risked being ostracized for expressing strong opinions. Thus, they depended on the singer to ensure that their voices (and opinions) would be heard. As such, Jerome became the conduit, the social chronicler and historian as well as the ‘yardstick’ against which acceptable morals and attitudes could be measured. In his role as a singer, rather than composer, he was immune from criticism, thus becoming the ‘voice of the people’, tackling issues ranging from the seal-hunt and cod moratorium to unconventional behaviour in local courtships. The presentation will be illustrated throughout by songs and will conclude with an example inviting participants to experience the power of singing the ‘message’.
