Irish music wears its globalism lightly, weaving itself into the fabric of music around the world, and its eloquently demonstrated in this festival finale that embraces folk traditions from Ireland, West Africa, Italy and the Balkans.
The groundbreaking trio of Aidan O'Donnell, Ciaran Ó Maonaigh and Damien McGeehan are joined by seventh generation griot Solo Cissokho in this entertaining dialogue between Donegal and Senegal. With their adventurous approach to the fiddle coupled with the depth of lore and tunes of the Donegal tradition, Fidil are a worthy talisman for a new trad generation. Solo is a master of the kora, the regal 22 stringed harp with its beautiful cascades of rippling notes and addictive West African grooves.
Tarab is a nimble craft that sails the waters between Ireland and the Mediterranean, and its helmsman is Italian Francesco Turrissi, bringing a fresh perspective informed by a background in baroque harpsichord, jazz piano and the Moorish dance forms of Southern Italy. He plays accordion, Arabic and Sicilian frame drums, and brilliantly bridges music from right across Europe in a band that also includes saxophonist Nick Roth and cellist Kate Ellis. Their jazz and classical backgrounds find a counterbalance in flautist Emer Mayock who, along with percussionist Robbie Harris, brings an innate understanding of melody and form in Irish music.
Presented by Improvised Music Company & Earagail Arts Festival
A Gala Benefit for The Pecker Dunne
Location: Dublin City Hall
Pecker Dunne is one of the founding fathers of the culture and human rights and equalities of the Travelling community.
The Pecker travelled all his life sustaining himself by the playing of his music. He became widely known for his playing skills which includes ‘hacking’ ‘snapping’ and ‘feathering’. These are features of a style that is unique to the playing of traditional music within the broad Irish Traveller family culture. These rhythms and styles were gathered as a result of the ancient nomadic lifestyle of these travelling musicians. The Pecker mastered the art and craft of many an instrument, the mandolin, the fiddle and the banjo. He is distinctively known for his most precious of gifts, his voice and what that voice can deliver. It is the envy of some of the world’s most renowned rock, pop, folk traditional and opera singers.
Pecker Dunne through his lyrics and his music which describe injustices and prejudice brought the issue of classism, inequality and ethnicity to the forefront of Irish society.
Friends and family will be paying tribute to The Pecker Dunne on this special evening. All revenues from this honorary concert will go directly to the care and well-being of Mr Dunne.
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