For such a small island, Ireland is filled with so many talented citizens. U2's Bono isn't the only product of the country with a set of impressive pipes. This group of teens from Coláiste Lurgan, an independent summer school, gathered together to cover Vance Joy's popular song, "Riptide." But you'll notice something is slightly different about their version.
Though the majority of residents speak the same English as you and me for their first language, several also speak a second, more traditional vocab, too. Irish, or Gaeilge as it's known in the language, was historically spoken across the country but is now only used by a small percentage of the population. The areas where it's still common are referred to as Gaeltacht villages. This school was founded in the heart of one of those towns, Inverin, on the island's eastern coastline. Students attend for the express reason of mastering the tricky vernacular. Of course, the best way to learn something is to have fun with it! Taking popular songs and translating them is the perfect way to mix education and pop culture. Using Vance Joy's song is a great way to have something we'll recognize even if we don't understand the words they're saying.
Filmed on the beach to fit in with the song's title, they also choreograph traditional dances, play instruments, and splash around. It looks like they all had a blast! No wonder they volunteer to go to school on their summer break.
What an awesome way to highlight their unique language! You definitely need to SHARE this one with your friends.
