For lovers of all things concertina be aware that the first National Concertina Convention, will take place in Ennis, Co Clare on 10, 11 & 12 April.  According to their press release "Consairtín is a celebration of the concertina in traditional Irish music. The past few years has witnessed an exponential rise in the popularity of the instrument among traditional players in Ireland and the establishment of a national convention now provides a platform for enthusiasts of all ages to gather in an environment that will encourage learning, discussion, performance and fun.

Situated in the heart of Co Clare, where concertina playing has been an integral part of traditional music life for centuries, and where it is currently thriving, Ennis is an ideal venue for such a festival and the event will salute the instrument’s special place in the local musical landscape. Some of the most highly-regarded practitioners and teachers from throughout Ireland and further afield will gather to share their expertise and showcase their musical virtuosity.

Performers and teachers already confirmed for the convention include Mary MacNamara, Noel Hill, Pádraig Rynne, Bernie Geraghty, Chris Droney, Micheál Ó Raghallaigh, John McMahon, Edel Fox, Jack Talty, Francis Cunningham, Cáitlín Nic Gabhann, Caoilfhionn Ní Fhrighil, Stephen Chambers and Jurgen Suttner.

The principal events of the weekend will include:

• classes for players of all ages and abilities with experienced tutors

• instrument maintenance workshops

• official opening by the legendary Chris Droney and a tribute to the late Sonny Murray by Dr Geraldine Cotter

• the Sonny Murray Memorial lecture, which will illustrate  new developments in concertina design, especially in Germany

• an illustrated panel discussion on the provenance of the  Anglo concertina in English traditional music

• nightly Concertina Clubs hosted by leading players

Three Concertina by Candlelight recitals, featuring:

• Noel Hill and Jack Talty (Friday night)

• launch and inaugural performance by the ICE Quintet, including Tim Collins’ Brian Boru Concerto

• Mary MacNamara, Mary Bergin and Geraldine Cotter

• two showcase recitals by younger performers, one highlighting Clare musicians and the other featuring concertina players from throughout Ireland. These events will be followed by open sessions for teenage players of all instruments

The festival directors, Tim Collins and Áine Hensey, bring many years of artistic and academic experience and expertise to this new venture. Tim is regarded as one of Ireland’s leading concertina players and teachers. He is a member of the Kilfenora Céilí Band and has recently completed his doctoral thesis in NUI Galway. Áine Hensey has worked as a traditional music broadcaster and arts adminstrator for more than 30 years and has also recently completed a doctoral thesis at NUI Maynooth.

Beidh go leor de imeachtaí an deireadh seachtaine, idir ranganna, coirmeacha agus seisiúin, á reachtáil trí mheán na Gaeilge.

Further information: 086-2612127; aine@consairtin.ie.

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