Basically, that’s my question. There are loads of tunes like Planxty Fanny Power, Planxty Dale Wisely, Planxty Connor, etc. etc. What does the word Planxty mean?
Susan
This is an enduring mystery.
The word Planxty was used a lot by O’Carolan when dedicating a tune to a patron. The general assumption is that it means something like “in praise of”.
I have heard it said by Irish musicians that “Planxty” songs are ‘tributes’. In effect, O’Carolan was a relatively poor man, who traveled over Ireland living off the generosity of the Gentry - who, being just as vain as modern rich folks, liked having their name on something. The great bard literally sang for his supper.
It’s been further suggested that O’Carolan made up the word himself, but I have forgotten where I read that. Does anyone know whether use of the word predates him?
My understanding, too, is that ‘Planxty’ signifies a tune that has been composed especially to honour the person named in it. Originally, it was probably done to ensure that the travelling minstrel continued to get well-fed, watered and housed, at the home of the subject.
Most authorities I’ve read point to Turlough O’Carolan as the ‘inventor’ of the word.
Steve Power
I have heard/seen the term mentioned in connection to toasts; as some dedication of the toast itself.
Also, I have some vague memory of somebody insinuating (pretty vague, that!) that ‘planxty’ is a side-development of the original term which also developed into ‘slainte’…(to somebody’s good health and well-being).
I can’t vouch for the credibility of this, but anyway this suggests that the term is used as some kind of a dedication.
Eivind:)
Whoa! (As opposed to WhOA…) I’m so amazed at the historical knowledge you all have about whistles/tunes/musicians. I’m humbled and will continue to study.
Susan
I have the book “Celtic Music - A Complete Guide”, by June Skinner Sawyers, De Cappo Press, 2001, ISBN 0-306-81007-7. The glossary in the back of this book defines Planxty as a “Praise piece.”
Not to sidetrack the topic, but this appears to be a pretty good book (I have not yet finished it.) Bought it at a local Books-A-Million store. The book addresses the music of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales from the 12th century to the present.
I just ordered the book mentioned by CDon from Half.com. They have several like-new, slightly used copies for good prices. Interested parties might want to check it out.
On a recent “Thistle n’ Shamrock” program dedicated to Turlough O’Carolyn,Fiona Richie(Goddess of Celtica) stated that O’Carolyn made up the word “Planxty” as a name for these tunes. A Planxty was a commissioned tune used as a family theme,to add to each family’s coat of arms.