Outside of the typical western canon of art music, there are many European folk traditions that have distinctive sounds. There is an astonishing variety in styles, from British sea shanties to Celtic dances and Austrian yodelling. Although not specifically Austrian, yodelling is commonly associated with Austria and other neighbouring alpine countries. The distinctive style is recognisable from the rapid alternation between high and low singing.
Celtic music covers the variety of styles that emerged from the folk music of the Celtic people. This mainly focuses on the musical traditions of Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Due its origins in folk, the music is predominantly comprised of dance and song forms including the jig, reel, hornpipe and air. The music is often both very melodic and rhythmic with long, flowing melodies that stick within primary chords to make them more memorable. The instruments you will most commonly hear are the violin, bagpipes, accordion, flute, mandolin, harp and, specifically to Ireland, the bodhran drum.
Nordic folk music covers the traditions of the Nordic countries, namely Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland. The most common instruments in Nordic folk music are the fiddle, accordion, harmonica, and the dulcimer. A dulcimer has strings stretched over a soundbox which are then beaten with a hammer. There are various traditions however dance is prominent, with circle dancing to songs and polkas both being important.