Traditional
Londonderry Air St. Patrick's Day
The Londonderry Air is a well-known Irish melody, linked to the song Danny Boy. The tune was collected by Jane Ross in the mid-19th century from a fiddler in Limavady, County Londonderry (now in Northern Ireland).
Although the exact origins of the melody are unclear, it is believed to come from older Irish folk music. The tune became famous worldwide, especially when paired with the lyrics of Danny Boy in 1913.
The Londonderry Air has since been used in many songs and arrangements, becoming a symbol of Irish culture and identity.
Fritz Kreisler performs this version.
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Fritz Kreisler (1875–1962) was a famous Austrian-born violinist and composer, known for his warm tone and expressive playing style. He started learning the violin at a very young age, entering the Vienna Conservatory at just seven years old!
Kreisler became one of the greatest violinists of his time, performing around the world and winning audiences with his charm and incredible skill. He also wrote many pieces for the violin, some of which he said were by older composers—but later admitted he had written them himself!
Even after a car accident in 1941, which affected his health, he continued to inspire musicians with his talent. His most famous pieces include Liebesfreud, Liebesleid, and Caprice Viennois.
