Glacier Country News

As St. Patrick's Day approaches, students at the University of Montana are delving into Irish culture through a unique course titled "Rockin’ Rebels: Rhetorics of Irish Music from Traditional to Punk." This class, designed by Dr. Erin Costello Wecker, an associate professor of English and Irish Studies, explores how Irish music reflects the nation's spirit of rebellion.

Dr. Costello Wecker emphasizes that "Irish music telegraphs the long history of Irish people refusing to be silenced linguistically and musically," referencing Ireland's historical resistance against British colonization.

The course is part of UM’s 18-credit Irish Studies minor and has gained popularity since its inception six years ago. It fulfills a general education requirement in writing by encouraging students to interpret music as they would traditional texts. Students engage with various genres, from traditional to punk, examining their cultural and political significance.

One key aspect discussed is the revival of traditional music and instruments like the harp, which was once banned under British rule. "It came from this resistance, this defiance, this rebellion," said Costello Wecker about making the harp a national symbol despite past prohibitions.

Students also explore connections between Irish diaspora communities in Montana and their musical heritage. Senior Paige Moriarty shares her personal connection: “We started the class by exploring that question of what it is to be Irish,” noting her interest in understanding her ancestry through this lens.

The course examines how global perceptions of "Irishness" extend beyond stereotypes. Moriarty highlights misconceptions: “There’s this conception that it’s leprechauns – red haired people with really strong accents who love green – and that’s not the case."

Music serves as a tool for historical insight within the class context. Moriarty finds value in learning history through songs: “I think it's a really valuable lens to look at history though.” She appreciates understanding how rebel songs relate to events like The Troubles.

Montana's rich Irish heritage influences local celebrations such as Butte's St. Patrick’s Day parade attended by thousands annually. In class discussions around these festivities, Dr. Costello Wecker encourages reflection on deeper cultural meanings behind them: “Have the best time of your life but also make room for cultural underpinnings.”

Dr. Costello Wecker concludes with thoughts on celebrating St Patrick's Day meaningfully: “The history of Irish America – it's a proud history... It has roots to democracy.”