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To download a printable version of our April-August 2010 Calendar of Events, click here!

 

First dates announced for autumn-winter 2010 music programme!


trad superstars

Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill

now confirmed to play at the Courthouse, Tinahely on
Saturday, September 4th, 8.30pm

BOOKING NOW OPEN at 0402-38529 or by e-mail to bookings@tinahely-courthouse.ie.
Admission €20/€18 Friends and conc

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Celtic Woman star

Orla Fallon

now confirmed to play at the Courthouse, Tinahely on
Saturday, September 18th, 8.30pm

BOOKING NOW OPEN at 0402-38529 or by e-mail to bookings@tinahely-courthouse.ie.
Admission €20/€19 conc/€18 Friends of the Courthouse

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presented with a touring grant from Music Network

Quartet for the End of Time

at the Courthouse, Tinahely on
Friday, October 1st, 8.30pm

BOOKING NOW OPEN at 0402-38529 or by e-mail to bookings@tinahely-courthouse.ie.
Admission €15/€14 conc./ €12 Friends of the Courthouse

In 1940, Olivier Messiaen (1908-92) was interned in a German prison camp, where he discovered among his fellow prisoners a clarinettist, a violinist and a violoncellist. The success of a short trio which he wrote for them led him to add seven more movements to this Interlude, and a piano to the ensemble, to create the Quartet for the End of Time. Messiaen and his friends first performed it for their 5000 fellow prisoners on January 15, 1941.

For the performance at the Tinahely Courthouse:

Gwendolyn Masin, violin
Sergio Neves, clarinet
Tara-Lee Angell, cello
Jovanni-Rey de Pedro, piano

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PAST CONCERTS at the COURTHOUSE

 
Cappella Choir returned to the Courthouse for a wonderful outdoor concert during the Bealtaine programme for May 2010. The sun shone and the heavenly voices were the perfect embodiment of early summer.
 
May 2010 saw the welcome return of one of Tinahely's favourite performers, Jack L, who once again brought the house down with his passionate and dramatic performance, not to mention a rich voice that seems even better every time!
 
Australian-Irish singer-songwriter Peter Baxter played a great set with a strong backing band, to an enthusiastic crowd on a warm May night in 2010. Peter has deep roots in Tinahely and the warmth of his performance made for an enjoyable evening.
 
On April 24th 2010 Music Network presented two rising stars of the international classical scene, cellist Natalie Clein and guitarist Xuefei Yang. The two gave a fiery and thrilling performance, and a capacity audience were swept off their feet. More info at www.musicnetwork.ie
 
Here at the Courthouse we celebrated Seachtain na Gaeilge in March 2010 with two trad sessions: Martin Nolan (uilleann pipes and low whistle) and Dan Carollo (guitar) accompanied the Fagan Irish Dancers, and then we had a showcase of talent from the young members of Tinahely Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann.
 
 
Presented with a Music Network Touring Award, Dermot Dunne and Katherine Hunka are two of Ireland's leading classical performers and they presented an eclectic programme including a new composition by Ronan Guilfoyle, as well as a roof-raising rendition of Copland's "Hoedown" - the fiery recital brought the audience to their feet!
 
Mercury award nominees the Portico Quartet came to Tinahely courtesy of Music Network and performed a sizzling gig in February 2010. Scintillating grooves swirling around the ethereal rhythm of the "hang" made it an atmospheric, chilled-out experience and left us wanting more. Visit Portico Quartet's web site here. Portico Quartet on MySpace - click here
 
Congolese-born, Cork-based guitarist Niwel Tsumbu made his first appearance at the Courthouse this year, kicking off our live programme in early February. Jazz licks and infectious songs in his native Lingala, with superb backing from his multicultural band, were a sure way to spark the audience's enjoyment, and a really great night was had by all. Visit Niwel's web site here.
 
In December 2009 we had a return visit from the RTE Vanbrugh Quartet. Another stunning evening was made even more special by the performance by pianist Peter Donohoe, whose interpretation of Taneyev's Piano Quintet (op 30) was nothing short of breathtaking.
Visit RTE Vanbrugh Quartet web site here.
 
Maria Tecce made a very welcome return visit to Tinahely this November. She set the place alight with her smouldering brand of Latin-flavoured music and song, sprinkled with seduction and sex appeal. Brava! Visit Maria's web site here.
Maria on MySpace - click here
 
In September 2009 Music Network brought us yet another absolute gem of the international music scene. Ragnhild Furebotten and Tore Bruvoll’s “Hekla Stålstrenga" was a Norwegian folk ensemble who blew us away with their musicality and spirits. Tinged with jazz and modern influences, and tempered by Ragnhild and Tore's engaging wit, it was a memorable night. Visit Ragnhild Furebotten and Tore Bruvoll’s web site here.
 
Rising trad star Gavin Whelan brought his tin whistle and uilleann pipe skills to the Courthouse in October 2009, and his live performance was every bit as exciting and accomplished as his recent album led us to expect. With able backing from Deirdre Smyth (fiddle), Dan Carollo (guitar) and Dominic Keogh (bodhran). Visit Gavin's web site here.
 
Organics are Ireland's leading Hammond jazz outfit, and made up of luminaries Kevin Brady (drums), Justin Carroll (organ) and John Moriarty (guitar) we knew we were in for a treat. They did not fail to deliver, and as true jazz messengers, they kindly gave their time to Tinahely Culture Night while they were here, hosting an open rehearsal for interested teenagers from the area before the gig. Visit Organics's web site here.
 
We kicked off the Autumn 2009 season with the first live appearance at the Courthouse by Eleanor McEvoy. Eleanor treated us to an eclectic mix of her own songs and covers. Visit Eleanor's web site here.
 
Spanish classical guitarist Augustin Maruri made his first visit to the Courthouse in May 2009 for a beautiful Sunday afternoon recital, wrapping up our live performance season for the summer.
Visit Augustin Maruri's web site here.
 
In May 2009 we hosted a celebration of the career in opera of local legend Patricia McCarry. Presented by broadcaster Colman Murray, the event was a warm-hearted look back over a life in music with contributions and recollections from Patricia herself as well as associates, friends and guest lecturers. There was a huge turnout and a wonderful trip down memory lane was enjoyed by all.
 
A long-awaited return by the Niall Toner Band was a highlight of our May calendar. Niall is one of the key names in roots music in this country, and along with the superlatively talented Clem O'Brien, and Dick Gladney's able accompaniment on bass, they brought the atmosphere and musicality of authentic bluegrass to an appreciative audience. Website - click here.
 
Paul Lamb is a legend in the UK and international blues scene, and the night he and his old pal Johnny Dickinson came to Tinahely, in April 2009, those of us lucky enough to be here on the night had a really unforgettable experience. Johnny's mellow voice, redolent of John Hammond at times, was the perfect foil to Paul's raucous harpoon and hellfire delivery. A fantastic night!
Website - Paul's click here and Johnny's click here
 
Singer/songwriter Sarah McQuaid mde her debut performance at the Courthouse in April 2009. Her introspective lyrics, melodious airs and particularly her evocative rendition of Bobby Gentry's classic "Ode to Billie Joe" won her many more fans. We expect to hear more from this talented artist as she continues to gain recognition. Sarah's website - click here
 
The Diversus Guitar Ensemble is an international collective of young musicians based in Maynooth, Co. Kildare. The six-string classical guitar is their primary instrument but the ensemble also features the contra bass guitar, soprano guitar and the steel string acoustic. Known for diversity in its choice of programme, their performance in Tinahely in March 2009 included compositions by David Stalling and John Wolf Brennan which showcased surprising uses of the instrument, and brought a breath of fresh air to our understanding and appreciation of the contemporary classical canon. Learn more at Website click here
 
Young fiddle player Michelle O'Brien comes from a strong musical tradition, and her innate talent shone through in the more-than-able company of trad stars Siobhan Peoples (fiddle) and Steve Cooney (guitar) in a showcase that thrilled us at the Courthouse in March 2009. This was a real treat for fans of the traditional genre, presented by artists at the peak of their powers, and left us wanting more. Michelle's website - click here
 
The Seven Deadly Sins of Opera was the title of a recital at the Courthouse in February 2009. Acclaimed soprano Sylvia O'Brien presented a selection of arias referencing these traits, which made for a lively and enjoyable programme. Syliva was joined by Russian pianist Hanna Shybayeva - a virtuoso in her own right whose piano solos were nothing less than exhilarating. Sylvia's website click hereand Hanna's website click here
 
“Mind-blowing chops . . .” That's what Acoustic Guitar Magazine had to say about rising jazz star Gyan Riley who appeared at the Courthouse in February 2009, courtesy of Music Network. Along with Timb Harris and Ches Smith, Gyan treated fans of the world/jazz fusion genre to a deeply enjoyable night, and a welcome escape to mellow climes, on this particular Wicklow winter evening. For more information on all three musician visit their websites: www.gyanriley.com, www.chessmith.com and www.estradasphere.com. For more on Music Network go to www.musicnework.ie
 
On St. Valentine's Night in 2009 Luka Bloom made his first ever appearance in County Wicklow, on the stage of the Courthouse Arts Centre! It was an event worth waiting for as everyone in the audience will attest to. Luka's wonderful songs, mellow voice and lively onstage persona thrilled us all and we're already looking forward to his next visit. Get up on your bike! www.lukabloom.com
 
Music Network brought us the trad programme "Happy To Meet, Sorry To Part" in January 2009. Featuring the remarkable talents of Len Graham, the renowned singer; Cormac Breathnach on whistles; and Brian Fleming on percussion, the night was a fascinating mixture of musical styles and insightful background to these songs and airs from Ireland and Scotland. For more about Music Network click here
 
We closed the year with a return visit from the Dublin-based mixed-voice choir Cappella, who once again brought us an intriguing and inspiring mix of carols and songs from around the world to celebrate the Christmas season.
 
Don Baker made a welcome return visit to the Courthouse in November. One of Ireland's best-loved bluesmen, he presented a great collection of his own compositions as well as blues standards, ably accompanied by guitarist Gerry Hendrix. www.donbaker.ie
 
In November 200 a much-anticipated solo show by ex-Squeeze frontman Glenn Tilbrook was a treat. A sparkling and idiosyncratic showman, Glenn gave us a whirlwind tour through Squeeze's hits of the 80s and 90s as well as his own solo material and some surprising cover versions too. A really fun night was had by all. www.glenntilbrook.com
 
When Trihornophone (Nov 2008) begin to play, it becomes obvious that the process of assimilation and recreation which characterizes good improvised music is hard at work in Seán Óg, Kelan Walsh, Bill Blackmore and Denis Cassidy. Seán Óg is distilling a musical zeitgeist and providing this talented group of musicians with a new vehicle for expression. www.trihronophone.com (With thanks to Music Network)
 
In October 2008 we found out why Elio Villafranca is considered one of the rising stars of the US/Cuban jazz scene. This virtuoso pianist brought us a scintillating mix of Latin syncopation and new-yet-timeless jazz melodies, with wonderful support from his quartet: Jane Bunnett, flute/saxophone; Yunior Terry, acoustic bass; and Ludwig Afonso, drums. The audience were unanimous: More Please! (Presented by Music Network).
 
Part of a national tour of the Thomas Moore Festival in October 2008, My Gentle Harp was a pleasing presentation of the music and life of the composer of the famous Moore's Melodies, compiled and presented by leading Irish pianist Una Hunt and performed by young Irish singers Anna-Louise Costello, Máire Flavin, and Roisin Walshe. For more on the Thomas Moore Festival click here.
 
As expected the recent performance by The RTE Vanbrugh Quartet with guest artist John O'Conor was amazing. A full house and a formidable sound, a real highlight of the season! Vanbrugh Quartet website - click here.
 
Honor Heffernan performed here in September 2008. With strong backing from Phil Ware, Kevin Brady and Damien Evans, Ireland's first lady of jazz wowed us with her vocal talents and charisma. A wonderful performer. www.honorheffernan.com
 
South Korean piano virtuoso Young-Choon Park visited the Courthouse in September and presented a wonderful recital with pieces by Haydn, Beethoven and Scarlatti.
 
Hungry Hill, a bluegrass band from Canada, performed in the old country style, gathered around a single mike, on their first (but hopefully not last) performance here to kick off our autumn 2008 season. Ross Nickerson is an outstanding talent, and all five musicians left the audience hungry for more. More information about the band at www.hungryhill.ca
 
We closed the spring season this year with another outstanding performance by Jack L. Once again his loyal fans thrilled to his deep baritone and sexy theatricality. A packed house, a happy audience, and a great end to a great season. Keep up to date with Jack's happenings at his website - click here.
 
Music Network presented The Rothko String Trio in May 2008. An exciting and vibrant ensemble dedicated to the dynamic art of chamber music, Cian Ó Dúill, Robin Michael and Cliodhna Ryan are outstanding young musicians constantly in demand on the busy classical music circuit both at home and abroad. More information about Music Network at www.musicnetwork.ie.
 
A special night of Philly soul and red-hot blues was delivered by outstanding nusoul vocalist Violetta Curry who visited the Courthouse in April 2008. Accompanied by an extremely tight ensemble, with Grammy short-listed Catalan jazz pianist Jaume Vilaseca, bassist Joseph 'The Duke' Roberts and drummer Cheryl Alleyn, our lucky audience grooved the night away. Further information at www.myspace.com/violettacurry
 
Johnny Duhan: the folk legend, and writer of some of the most memorable songs in the repertoires of Christy Moore and others, presented a witty and captivating programme of songs and reminiscences at the Courthouse. More information click here.
 
A return visit by the Vienna Mozart Trio made for a full house in April. This highly talented and musically charismatic family presented a wonderful programme of Rachmaninov, Shostakovich and Schubert and we are already looking forward to seeing them again soon. Visit their website here.
 
Music Network presented Pearls of the Opera in March 2008. Irish soprano Mairéad Buicke was joined by baritone Seung-Wook Seong with Czech pianist Lada Valešová in a charming journey through popular operas such as Carmen, Madame Butterfly and The Magic Flute. More information about Music Network at www.musicnetwork.ie
 
Bringing sean nos with a twist to the Courthouse, Lorcan MacMathuna performed in March 08 with musicians Joey Doyle (flute, piano, guitar), and Barry Lyons (fiddle, bodhrán). They conjured the stories, pulse, and spirit of an ancient tradition of Gaelic music and songs with this highly enjoyable recital. Further information at www.lorcanmacmathuna.com
 
Lunfardia: This superb new quintet built around the vibrant creative partnership of Argentine guitarist and singer Ariel Hernandez and accordionist Dermot Dunne visited the Courthouse in February 08. The group skillfully capture the lively music and sensual songs of South America, and the night was enjoyed by all. More information here.
 
Master blues guitarist Ed Deane returned to the Courthouse for another red-hot gig in February 08. Ed and his band once again rocked the crowd with their blues riffs and R'n'B licks. Always a joy. Visit Ed's website at www.eddeane.com
 
Karin Leitner and Anne-Marie O'Farrell presented "O'Carolan's Dream" at the Courthouse early in 2008, an enjoyable mixture of light classical airs and O'Carolan classics.
Karin's website HERE. Anne-Marie's homepage HERE.
 
Christmas this year was celebrated at the Courthouse with the heavenly voices of Cappella, an award-winning small voice choir based in Dublin, who delighted the audience with their programme of carols both familiar and unknown, and got us all singing along too!
 
Music Network presented the London Conchord Ensemble in November 2007. Born from a passion to showcase works by the great composers that had been neglected simply because of their unusual instrumentation, the ensemble plays works written for strings, wind and voice, with a repertoire that ranges from the baroque to the contemporary. More information at www.conchord.co.uk
 
Award winner Maria Butterly, originally from Laytown, Co Meath, performed at the Courthouse in the winter of 2007. Regarded as "one of Ireland's most talented singer-songwriters" according to Mark Cagney on Ireland AM, Maria describes her sound as "grassroots country" and she is influenced by the likes of Eva Cassidy and Joni Mitchell. Visit her website at www.mariabutterly.com
 
Maire NiChathasaigh and Chris Newman brought their virtuoso brand of trad music to the Courthouse in early November, 2007 to promote their new album "Firewire". Click here for info on their music.
 
Nobody who had the fortune to be at the recent gig by Malian musician Baba Salah will forget that night in a hurry! It's not often the entire house gets on their feet, but the irresistable beat had us dancing in the aisles. Not for nothing is he called the Jimi Hendrix of Africa! Look out for more top-class world music at the Courthouse in the coming year. www.babasalah.com
 
In September 2007 Music Network presented William Dowdall and John Feeley in a superb classical programme that showcased these two master musicians at their best.
For more information click here for Music Network
 
Local hero Andrew Murray brought the house down as vocalist of contemporary/trad outfit Slide, who visited Tinahely thanks to a Music Network touring grant. The band were on fire that night, and we hope to see them back again to raise the roof once more with their incomparable energy and talent! Info on the band at www.slide.ie
 
Na Piobairi Uilleann presented PIPERLINK, an informative and entertaining showcase for the uilleann pipes, at the Courthouse in September 2007. Through performance, instruction, storytelling and lecture, the musicians and experts gave us a compelling insight into the traditions and music of this intriguing instrument.  www.pipers.ie
Mick O'Brien
 
On a wet August night this year we hosted a showcase and CD launch for local band West of Eden. Kenn Davis and Cindy O'Keeffe played a beautiful set of their original tunes, and we were delighted to be able to present this young band before they make it big, which they are sure to! Excellent back-up was provided by Nollaig Mann on guitar and Dave Flynn on bass.
For more visit www.myspace.com/thewestofeden
 
Galway-born Mary Coughlan played to a packed house in May 2007 enthralling the audience with her soulful songs and husky voice. She sang from her CD's "Tired & Emotional" and "Sings Billie Holiday" and others.  www.marycoughlanmusic.com
 
  
Spanish early music ensemble the Armoniosi Concerti with soprano Maria Espada performed at the Courthouse in April 2007. Their beautiful, moving and lively repertoire was a showcase of virtuoso musicianship on the ancient instruments: vilhuelas and theorbo. For more visit www.armoniosiconcerti.com
 
Irish-born blues guitar legend Ed Deane and his band played a red-hot gig at the Courthouse in April 2007. Jazz riffs, blues licks, and blistering solos were the name of the game, and the audience lapped it up. We hope to see them back again soon. www.eddeane.com
 
  
Deirdre Starr sings songs from the Irish tradition, reworked and rewritten in a classical and contemporary stile while retaining their traditional roots.  The songs tell stories of love, heartache, death and a bit of misery thrown in for good measure. For more visit www.deirdrestarr.com
 
Seeing ex-Fatima Mansions and Microdisney legend Cathal Coughlan in the intimate surroudings of the Courthouse in March 2007 was an experience that will not be forgotten by his fans who were there. It was an incredible night of raw vocal talent. www.cathalcoughlan.com
 
  
Therese Fahy, born in Dublin, is considered one of Ireland's foremost pianists and has given many recitals worldwide including performances in France, America and the United Kingdom. She brought her beautiful playing to us in an afternoon recital at the Courthouse in March 2007.
 
Jimmy Crowley is an Irish traditional folk singer and musician from fair Cork City in the Republic of Ireland. No-one sounds like Jimmy, and few can match him for the humour, joy, tenderness and sheer storytelling craft which he brings to his repertoire of songs. He played and sang to a very appreciative audience in Tinahely in Feb 07. Web site click here
upcoming concert
 
  
The Dublin Guitar Quartet kicked off 2007for us in truly excellent style with their highly accomplished performance of contemporary classical pieces, including a sizzling all-Steve Reich second half.  Fans of this genre absolutely loved the show - and they made some converts. 
For more visit www.dublinguitarquartet.com
 
Carlow Young Artists Choir presented a Christmas programme at the Courthouse in December 2006. Under Mary O'Brien's expert guidance, the choir wowed us with their talent and brought a lively mix of classic and unconventional seasonal music. They deserve the acclaim and recognition they have been receiving both home and abroad.
 
  
Susannah deWrixon brought us Fever! - her tribute to Peggy Lee - in December 2006. Susannah is a fantastic performer who really brought the legendary torch singer to life in this show, ably backed by a wonderful jazz combo. A great night - we look forward to asking Susannah back soon. www.dewrixon.com
 
Music Network presents Laura Mitchell and Morgan Szymanski : UK soprano Laura's exceptionally clear, sweet voice, and Mexican guitarist Morgan's virtuosity, were warmly received by our audience in November 2006 in a delightful programme of Latin songs. A warm treat on a cold night!
Laura's click here and Morgan's click here
 
  
Mairéad and Tríona NíDhomhnaill and Tony McManus (performed here Sept 2006). It was a night to remember as two of the greatest living traditional singers, Maighread and Triona Ni Dhomhnaill, hooked up with guitar legend Tony McManus, a spell-binding perfomer who has almost single-handedly redefined guitar playing in Celtic music.
 
National Chamber Choir (Oct 2006). We didn't think it could happen, but this return visit by the NCC was if anything even more breathtaking than the last! An intoxicating afternoon of musical virtuosity led by the inimitable Celso Antunes. Website - click here.
 
   
Nils Wogram and Root 70 (performed here Oct 2006). Nils Wogram’s all-star ensemble Root 70 brought us a thrilling evening of bouncing arrangements, fleet-fingered solos and high-octane ensemble playing. One of the most sought-after trombone players in Germany, Nils more than lived up to his reputation.
 
Juliet Turner (September 2006). Juliet's honest songs range from poignant observations of life's experiences to the humorous wit which has become her trademark. Her live show at the Courthouse was a special night that really kicked off our new Autumn season in style. Juliet charmed us with her sweet voice and astonishingly original songwriting, in a set filled with old favourites as well as fantastic new songs, ably accompanied by Brian Grace on guitar. We look forward to having her back! www.julietturner.com.
 
   
Martin Daws Quintet and Gwyn Parry (performed here Sept 2006). MDQ perform poetry/spoken word with music using a strong hip-hop/jazz/blues structure: Martin rocked our souls, with his tight-as-a-drum live ensemble. Gwyn performed his evocative poetry against a backdrop of his own films, his soft voice punctuated by lonesome harmonica. Two remarkably different but complementary, cool performances, that worked wonderfully in our vaulted space.
 
Jack L (May 2006). Originally from Athy, Co. Kildare, Jack Lukeman spent his formative years experimenting with his vocal. He found that he could fill large empty spaces with his soaring haunting voice. A summer spent as a street performer in Europe introduced him to the work and life of Jacques Brel. Suitably inspired Jack would return to Ireland to find his own voice and his own songs. In Ireland he has grown from independent origins to a multi-platinum selling singer-songwriter, and he electrified the Tinahely audience in our show-stopping season finale live gig. www.jacklukeman.com.
 
Pierce Turner (performed at the Courthouse April 2005). Whether as a singer or songwriter or performer, Pierce Turner has a penchant for the unexpected and the unorthodox, re-writing the rules for all three endeavours. A hugely loyal fanbase turned out in force for a madcap night of musical expertise, as Pierce whipped his crowd up to a frenzy and raised the roof in his inimitable style. www.pierceturner.com
 
The Vienna Mozart Trio (at the Courthouse April 2006). For this special year, the 250th anniversary of the birth of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the Courthouse Arts Centre was delighted to present one of the preeminent performance groups dedicated to bringing the music of this beloved composer to discerning audiences around the world. www.mozarttrio.com
 
Buenos Aires native Ariel Hernandez and Dermot Dunne, one of Ireland's leading classical accordionists, brought their talents to Tinahely in March 2006. Their music expands beyond the widely recognised Tango and Milonga of Buenos Aires to include the Chacerera and Huayno of Norther Argentina, Brazilian Choro and Venezuelan Joropo. The show, which included a number of original pieces by Ariel Hernandez adding a hint of jazz to the folk styles of the region, was a smash hit with the Courthouse audience. www.arielhernandez.com/duo
 
Kadin Sarkilari (performed at the Courthouse February 2006). Gisela Bellsolà (vocals), Enise Agopian (quanun), Anello Capuano (oud, saz and percussion) and Guy Robert (lute and harp) charmed the Tinahely audience with an eclectic blend of Sephardic melodies, harem songs and troubadour canso and descort, conjuring up the sounds of the medieval Mediterranean world and giving voice to songs first sung by real-life Sheherazades from Andalucia to Baghdad. For more information - Music Network or www.productions-perceval.com
 
Nollaig Casey and Arty McGlynn (performed at the Courthouse February 2005). Nollaig Casey and Arty McGlynn are an extraordinary duo with a rich mix of talent and experience. Nollaig is one of Ireland's most gifted musicians, with her own unique way of playing traditional Irish music on the fiddle and such an utterly distinctive sound that it would be impossible to mistake it for that of anyone else. Arty is without question the finest guitar player in Ireland with a unique understanding of music he performs. Together they provided us with a magical night of truly superb music.
 
Chris Difford (performed at the Courthouse February 2006). As a founding member of Squeeze, Chris Difford penned the lyrics for some of the best known pop songs of all-time such as Labelled With Love, Tempted and Cool for Cats. Visiting Tinahely as part of his first solo tour of Ireland, this fantastic acoustic show included many of the great songs and stories from his time with Squeeze as well as his own new material from his album I Didn't Get Where I Am. Chris was joined on this unforgettable evening by guitarist Andy Keane and acclaimed voclaist Dorie Jackson. www.chrisdifford.com
 
Irish Baroque Orchestra (performed at the Courthouse November 2005). The Irish Baroque Orchestra is Ireland’s only professional period instrument orchestra. Using either baroque instruments or modern replicas, the orchestra explores the playing techniques and stylistic practices associated with music from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and gives Irish audiences the rare and precious opportunity to hear this music in live performances that recreate the vivid colours and textures of the baroque sound world.
 
Don Mescall (played here November 2005). Don is an accomplished guitarist, a powerful vocalist and immensely gifted songwriter. His melodies are lilting and expertly combined with unique and haunting lyrics, weaving an intensely deep and emotional tapestry, mixed with a powerful and energetic delivery. Don has worked with Graham Lyle (of Gallagher & Lyle), Shawn Colvin , Richie Havens , Joe Cocker , Kiki Dee , Frances Black , Eleanor Shanley and Lulu. Website click here.

 

Ensemble Nordlys (Toured from Denmark, November 2005). Taking its name from the appropriately ethereal Northern Lights, Ensemble Nordlys represents an effervescent synergy of old and new. Not content with mastering an extravagantly wide repertoire of baroque, romantic and contemporary classics, this self-styled "Ensemble of the Future" strives constantly to redefine the relationship between performer and composer. Website click here.

Music Network
 
The National Chamber Choir (Presented their programme Motets and the Bard here in October 2005). Founded in 1991, warmth and flexibility have characterised the sound of the group from the beginning. This unique quality was nurtured by its founder from the outset and has been built on by its current artistic director, Celso Antunes, who has added an extra element of energy and dynamism to the group's performances. Website click here.
 
Josh Johnston and David MacKenzie (Visited the Courthouse in October 2005). Dublin duo Josh Johnston (piano) and David MacKenzie (violin) take the swing jazz style of Stephan Grappelli and add elements of blues, Latin jazz and classical music to create an entertaining mix of jazz standards and original compositions.
 
Dawn Kenny (Played in September 2005). Diverse, emotional, sultry and smooth are just a few words that have been used to describe talented singer/songwriter Dawn Kenny. Dawn has shared the stage with the likes of Cathal Coughlan, Glenn Tilbrook, Bob Geldof, Joan Armatrading, Ron Sexsmith, Al Stewart, and the Hothouse Flowers to name a few! Dawn's website click here.
 

The Centre is a particularly fine concert hall, with an excellent acoustic environment for chamber music. Maximum seating is 120, divided between the ground floor and a first-floor balcony.

MUSICIANS OR GROUPS who are interested in playing at the Courthouse Arts Centre: If you are organising a tour of the island, contact is needed at least six (preferably nine) months prior. Send a sample recording with other details to Shelley Hayes at the Courthouse Arts Centre. Visit the contact page for details.

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