A TOUCH OF THE IRISH IN BILPIN

Taia de Burca was recently recorded by Rob and Olya Willis in Bilpin, NSW, singing a few Irish songs from her family tradition. Here she is on Youtube with a good rebel song, ‘The Tri Coloured Ribbon’.

And again, with a lovely version of ‘If I Were a Blackbird’ learned from her mother.

Rob writes:

Taia de Burca learnt many songs from her Irish mother both as a child and in later years. The family were involved in The Irish War of Independence, her Grandfather being one of the railway engine drivers who refused to carry British troops. Singing was important with the family in Ireland and the 'rebel' songs were a strong part of the repertoire. I find it interesting the way Taia sings this song, really putting her heart in to it… I am amazed we are still finding these songs passed down in the family, aural tradition.

Thanks Taia