FolkMusic

Quora Answer : Why did Eire and Norse traditional music almost look the same?

Oct 6

Bits of Ireland were invaded / colonized by Vikings. So there is a cultural relationship between Ireland and Norse culture. (Even more between Scotland and Norse culture.)

But mainly this musical style was probably common across most of Europe.

In some parts of Europe it got replaced and more or less wiped out by more modern "serious" music.

But also, I think Eire and Norse provide templates for Europeans looking for more "Romantic" and "dramatic" roots.

Chances are that folkloric music from Sussex and Kent in the 6th century wasn't that different, but Kent doesn't capture the imagination in the same way as Vikings or Irish kings do.