Irish music is ‘as old as the hills’ – at least according to Sarah Wilfong-Joblin, longtime Irish music enthusiast and music instructor at the University of Oregon. In her work at the UO, Wilfong-Joblin is continuing this musical legacy in Eugene with her own Irish music ensemble. 

With a rich history spanning centuries, the oral traditions of Irish music have persevered through years of wars and cultural shifts, remaining an enduring part of Ireland's cultural heritage. 

In a full-length interview, Wilfong-Joblin delves into the fascinating history and vibrant traditions of Irish music, shedding light on its influence on Irish culture and beyond. Along with clips from the ensemble themselves, this interview has been adapted into an audio story, offering an exploration of Irish music’s lineage, and its presence on the UO campus with an inside look into the ensemble’s playing.

The University of Oregon’s Irish music ensemble will be showcasing their skills on March 20 at Collier House at 6:00 p.m. – any and all are welcome and encouraged to join in. If you’d like to hear more examples of Ireland's vibrant musical culture, check out Wilfong-Joblin’s Spotify playlist below.