April 14th – 17th, 2011
www.comhaltas.ie/events
The Féile Patrick Byrne takes place on the weekend before Easter in and around Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. Now in its fifth year this community festival commemorates the local nineteenth century harper Patrick Byrne who was the first Irish traditional musician ever photographed.
The festival will be launched with the annual Patrick Byrne lecture on Thursday 14th April. Then on Friday 15th Seána Davey, one of Ireland’s most accomplished young harpers, will give an intimate concert in the atmospheric setting of St. Finbarr’s Church. Featuring material from her recent debut album this promises to be a very special occasion.

Friday closes with the irrepressible Martin Donohoe leading a lively session in Corduff community centre. Situated between Carrickmacross and Shercock, Corduff will also host the main festival concert on the night of Saturday 16th April. Taking centre stage this year will be the exciting Goitse who have been winning numerous plaudits for their energetic and infectious playing.

Central to the festival each year are the music workshops. This year’s confirmed line-up of tutors is: Harp (Seána Davey), Uilleann Pipes (Martin McCormack), Fiddle (Áine McGeeney), Piano Accordion (Tadhg Ó Meachair), Banjo/Mandolin (James Harvey), Bodhrán (Colm Phelan) and Guitar (Conal O’Kane).
Back by popular demand, the legendary Gerard Butler will once again teach a sean nós dancing workshop on Sunday afternoon. The festival then closes with a family session in the Shirley Arms at 6pm.

Further details are available at www.comhaltas.ie/events and via email: patrickbyrnefestival@gmail.com