Drone On!: The High History of Celtic Music

A lively history from 1000 B.C. to Broadway.

Drone On! is a humorous spin on the history, mystery, magic, mythology, musicians, musical instruments and multiculturalism of Celtic music.

The book covers the influence of the Celts on classical composers, country crooners, film soundtracks, today's explosive shamrock 'n' roll as well as the phenomenon of the global touring shows Riverdance and Lord of the Dance.

Undoubtedly Irish/Scottish cultures have shaped the music of North America, from Newfoundland to Nashville, and continue to inspire musicians everywhere, with rhythm and repertoire. From the Celts' first piping-and-plundering over 3,000 years ago, to some twenty-first century triumphs, this music still delights.

Like poet Arthur O'Shaughnessy (1844-1881), the author sees the Celts as music-makers, dreamers of dreams and "the movers and shakers, of the world forever, it seems." Never before has Celtic music and all its complexity been treated with such loving irreverence. Drone On! is bouncy enough to be read in one go -- while each chapter can be savored for its light-hearted lore.