Ornamentation in Irish Fiddling: Eileen Ivers as a Case Study

This article is a study of ornamentation in the fiddling of Eileen Ivers. Ivers grew up in the Bronx, studied with Limerick-born fiddler Martin Mulvihill, and has since become one of the most well-known of contemporary Irish fiddlers. Although Ivers is known primarily for her Irish fusion playing style, her more traditional core style is reflected in this article, which is based on a series of interview-lessons. The types of ornaments and their placement, combination, function, and effect in Ivers's performance of Irish dance music are discussed.