I just polished off the tune “Sport” taught to me by Patrick Hutchinson at the N. Hero pipers gathering. I first heard Mick O’Brien play this tune at Drumshanbo in July and recognized it immediately when Patrick played it for me. Thus, I requested and he was kind enough to teach it to me. It is a lovely piece. I was once told the history of its relatively recent composition by an Irishman. I am wondering if anyone can help me recall the details. Also, I know that this tune has been recorded but cannot remember where. I am hoping my friend Goatpiper can help me remember. Anyone else know of recorded sources? Patrick’s verison taught to me is marvelous but I’d like to study other interpretations and especially am wondering if the tune has been recorded on box.
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The Micheál O’Raghallaigh CD is excellent and his version of the tune is beautiful… the tune he plays with it is great too… nice key change.
Spóirt was written by Peadar O’Riada, in the early 70’s I suppose. I think it was used as the theme music of a childrens programme.
PD.
Interesting timing… I just put my recording of Sport on the Clips and Snips site a couple of days ago… Now that I’ve gone back and watched some video from Willy week of Mick O’Brien playing this in the concert call I have to go back and relearn a few intervals here and there as I like his version better… Its my favorite jig these days…
You can hear a recording of Mick O’Brien playing it on Patrick’s website. It was in an installment of “Late Session.” Incidentally, I have a Peadar O’Riada album with the original of this tune on it. I think it’s hummed or whistled (with the mouth, not a tin whistle). This album is quite possibly the weirdest album (of any type) I have in my collection. Lots of strange singing by someone with a very high pitched voice. Maybe it’s Peadar, maybe a child. I don’t know, you’d just have to hear it. Unusual.
jd