Trim native Mickey McKenna passed away seven years ago, and each year since his
friends and family (which includes such musicians as Seán Óg and Barney McKenna)
have gathered in Trim to celebrate the man and his music. In 2008 arts group
Alternative Entertainments, with whom Mickey worked on many projects over twenty
years, including as a member of the acclaimed Tallafornian Mandolin Band, were asked
to create an annual festival around the celebration. The festival has grown year-on-year
and this year’s event promises to be even better again. In keeping with the eclecticism
of Mickey’s music-making the festival each year features a broad spectrum of musical
styles. This year is no different. Joining us will be internationally celebrated classical
guitarist John Feeley. John has performed all around the world and is considered one of
the foremost exponents of his instrument. Also on the bill is Paul Kelly, a musician who
has been at the centre of the trad and country scenes for the past 30 years. Paul is well
known for his virtuosity on the fiddle, mandolin and banjo. For the concert on May 28 th
he will perform a set on Mickey’s preferred instrument the tenor guitar. Paul Dooley is a
well respected harper from Co Clare. He has been playing and making harps since the
mid-eighties, and is one of the few Irish harpers who play the traditional metal-strung
instrument that, of course, he constructed himself. Two fine traditional singers, Barry
Gleeson and Eamonn O’Donnchadha, complete the Saturday night concert. Barry is
from Dublin and has been one of the country’s central figures in traditional song. He is
one of the regular contributors to the legendary Góilín Singers Club in Dublin. Local
Trim man Eamonn is recognized as one of the finest sean-nós performers in the
country, and has performed in Mickey’s honour at past festivals.
Mickey McKenna Festival
Trim Library, Trim, Co Meath
SATURDAY MAY 28TH SCHEDULE:
Rock guitar workshops for teenagers delivered by Martin Moran.Trim Library, 1.30pm – 3.00pm
Interactive traditional workshop for children delivered by Kevin Ward (guitar), Niamh Ni Bheoláin (fiddle) & Liam Kennedy (fiddle & mandolin).
Trim Library, 3.00pm – 4.00pm
Concert:featuring
John Feeley (classical guitar)Paul Kelly (tenor guitar)Barry Gleeson (voice)
Paul Dooley (harp)Eamonn O’Donnchadha (voice).
With special guests Barney McKenna & John Sheehan of The Dubliners.Trim Library, 7.30pm
Session:An informal music session with performers from the concert, local
musicians and Mickey’s friends and family.
The Bounty Bar, Trim. 9.30pm.
Alternative Entertainments acknowledges the financial support of Meath County Council in the staging of this event.