Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival

Last weekend saw the 15th annual Bluegrass festival in Dunmore East, Co Waterford. The event is the tradional end of season wrap in the beautiful coastal resort. The music is always terrific with bands from Europe, USA, Northern Ireland as well as local groups. The regular haunts of The Haven, The Candlelight, The Ship are always decked out well with a great mix of music and a chance to meet old friends.

Piano Bar - Oscar Wilde

Travelling back from Cherbourg on the Irish Ferries vessel The Oscar Wilde we were entertained by Stephen Lancefield.
Stephen plays in the Piano Bar each evening and is outstanding with a repertoire including Billy Joel, Tom Waits, etc, etc.

A real star!

Irish Church Music Association Summer School

The annual ICMA Summer School was once again held in Maynooth. I joined my good friends from The Ennis Cathedral Choir for a few days. The programme this year included workshops by Mary Amond O'Brien and Colin Mawby. It was dedicated to the memory of Fintan O'Carroll. Mr O'Carroll was my first and most influential music teacher.

San Sebastian Jazz Festival

Finally got to see San Sebastian. Not only is it one of Spain's best kept secrets & the gourmet capital of Nortern Spain but it hosts each July a great Jazz festival. This year's programme included Cuba's finest; the Buena Vista Social Club.