Herbert Hughes (composer)

Herbert Hughes (1882-1937) was an Irish composer, collector, and music critic. He is best known for his arrangements of Irish folk songs, which helped to popularize traditional music and were often performed by notable singers of his era.

Hughes was born in Belfast, Ireland. He studied music in Dublin and London. He dedicated much of his life to collecting and arranging traditional Irish melodies, often providing them with new accompaniments suitable for concert performance. He collaborated with several poets, including James Joyce, to set words to his arrangements. His arrangements, while beloved by some, have also been criticized by purists who preferred a more authentic representation of the original folk traditions.

His most significant publication is likely "Irish Country Songs," a multi-volume collection of folk songs with his arrangements. This collection remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in Irish folk music. He also worked as a music critic for various publications, contributing to the musical landscape of his time.