pibroch

Meaning of Pibroch in Music

Pibroch, also known as piobaireachd or ceòl mòr, is an art music genre primarily associated with the Scottish Highlands. It is characterized by extended compositions with a melodic theme and elaborate formal variations. The term "pibroch" strictly means "piping" in Scottish Gaelic, and it has been the music of the great Highland bagpipe for around four centuries.

The term "ceòl mòr" is a more general term in Scottish Gaelic, meaning "great music." It is used to distinguish this complex extended art music from the more popular Scottish music such as dances, reels, marches, and strathspeys, which are called "ceòl beag" or "little music." Ceòl mòr encompasses music of a similar nature to pibroch that predates the adoption of the Highland pipes. It historically has been played on the wire-strung Gaelic harp (clàrsach) and later on the Scottish fiddle, and this form is currently undergoing a revival.

The word "piobaireachd" literally means "pipe playing" or "pipe music" and is now used to describe the classical music of the Great Highland Bagpipe. The term "pibroch" is often anglicized from "piobaireachd" and is commonly used to refer to this genre of music.

Pibroch compositions typically consist of a theme and variations. The variations explore different melodic and rhythmic ideas while maintaining a connection to the original theme. Pibroch music is known for its complexity and emotional depth, often evoking a range of feelings and moods.

In summary, pibroch is an art music genre associated primarily with the Scottish Highlands. It is characterized by extended compositions with a melodic theme and elaborate formal variations, and it has been traditionally played on the Great Highland Bagpipe