Bought in Ireland.

A simple, sober summation of the history and nature of Irish "folk" music (the author specifies that "folk" music must be of anonymous authorship) as of 1971. Written for people with only a little knowledge of music, and no knowledge of traditional styles (contains arguments for recognition of folk music as an independent, and not inferior, art form). Admirably clear.

Pulls together what scraps of information could be found about pre-20th-century music and dance, which is very interesting.