Thursday Night Concert

Danny O’Mahony is a traditional musician from Ballyduff in North County Kerry. Danny’s musical style is expressive and deeply personal and reflects his affinity with the music of past masters. In 2013, he received the Top Button Accordionist award from the Irish Music Association in America. His highly praised debut solo album, “In Retrospect,” was released in 2011, followed by a collaboration with Mícheál Ó Raghallaigh on “As It Happened” a year later. Since 2004, Danny has hosted and produced a weekly radio show on Radio Kerry. In 2020, he was appointed as the Traditional Artist in Residence by UCC.

Johnny ‘Ringo’ McDonagh is one of the most innovative and exciting bodhrán players in the world of traditional Irish music. This legendary bodhrán player has become an icon, shaping the world of modern bodhrán playing and inspiring countless generations of musicians and instrument makers. Johnny has played and recorded with anyone who’s anyone in the Irish music community including the likes of Altan, Arcady, Mary Bergin, Eileen Ivers, Sharon Shannon and many more.

Cyril O’Donoghue hails from East Clare and was a member of the successful band ‘Providence’. Cyril is a renowned guitarist, bouzouki player and singer and is a prominent feature Clare’s traditional music scene. He features on the album ‘In Retrospect’ alongside Danny.

Sorcha Costello is a talented fiddle player known for her expressive and dynamic approach to traditional Irish music. Hailing from County Clare, Sorcha’s playing is deeply rooted in the rich musical heritage of her region. She brings a fresh and innovative perspective to traditional tunes, infusing them with her own unique style and flair. Sorcha’s virtuosity on the fiddle, combined with her passion for the music, has earned her recognition in the Irish music scene. Sorcha will be accompanied by her longtime musical companion, Conor Connolly.

In 2019, Conor Connolly, a multi-talented musician from Clarinbridge, Co. Galway, clinched the title of TG4 Young Musician of the Year. Raised in a community steeped in Irish music, Immersed in local musical traditions, he honed his skills at the Anne Conroy Burke and Joe Burke school in Kilnadeema, playing with Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. Influenced by legends like Joe Cooley, Tony MacMahon, and Charlie Harris, Conor embraced the C#/D accordion system. He’s been featured on various broadcasts, showcasing his exceptional musical prowess.

The pair will be accompanied by Pádraig Ó Dubhghaill who is a highly skilled guitarist renowned for his innovative approach to traditional Irish music. He is known for seamlessly blending traditional Irish tunes with contemporary guitar techniques, creating a captivating and unique sound. Collaborating seamlessly with renowned musicians like Johnny Óg Connolly and Colm Gannon, Pádraig’s musical journey is as diverse as it is rich. His profound connection to tradition infuses every note he plays, making him a sought-after accompanist whose natural style resonates deeply with audiences.

Eileen O’Brien is a celebrated fiddle player and singer known for her profound connection to the traditional music of Ireland. Eileen hails from Tipperary where her family is deeply rooted in Irish tradition. Her late father, Paddy, was instrumental in shaping the B/C style of button accordion playing and was a prolific composer of traditional music. Her grandfather, Dinny O’Brien, was a respected fiddler and concertina player who led the renowned “Bridge Ceili Band” in the 1950s and 60s. Eileen herself is an accomplished musician, holding All-Ireland titles in senior fiddle and fiddle slow airs. Her compositions have been recorded by notable artists. With three solo albums to her name and contributions to projects like “Gléas” with The Boruma Trio, Eileen continues to explore and preserve Irish musical heritage. She’ll be joined by her longtime friend Jackie Daly for their performance.

Jackie Daly is a highly acclaimed button accordion player from County Cork, Ireland. Jackie has been a prominent figure in the traditional music scene for decades. He is celebrated for his masterful command of the accordion and his ability to infuse traditional tunes with energy and flair. Jackie’s contributions to Irish music include collaborations with renowned musicians and numerous acclaimed recordings. His dynamic playing and distinctive sound have left a lasting impact on the genre, making him a beloved and influential figure among traditional music enthusiasts worldwide.

The duo will be accompanied by guitarist Paul De Grae, who is a highly respected guitarist and mandolin player in the world of traditional Irish music. He is known for his intricate fingerstyle technique and his ability to accompany traditional tunes with finesse and sensitivity. Paul’s extensive repertoire and musical versatility have made him a sought-after performer and collaborator within the traditional music community. He continues to be a respected figure in Irish music circles, admired for his skillful playing and commitment to preserving and promoting the heritage of Irish music.

The O’Loughlin family hails from Corofin, Co. Clare, with Martina on accordion, Brian on flute, Keith on banjo, and Conor on concertina. Their music reflects the rich traditions of North Clare while incorporating global influences from collaborations worldwide. They’ve partnered with esteemed groups like the Shandrum Céilí Band and the National Folk Orchestra of Ireland, performing extensively across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. In Ireland, they’re regulars at festivals, both performing and teaching. They have recently launched their new CD titled ‘New Place Like Home’.