Sunday 17
Clare Youth Trad Orchestra
Glór, Ennis 7pm €15 glor.ie
Having debuted at Fleadh Cheoil na héireann last summer, the Clare Youth Trad Orchestra makes its first appearance in Glór. The 100-strong collective from across the county will perform original arrangements of many well-loved traditional tunes, under the direction of founder, Padraic O’Reilly. The orchestra will be joined by some surprise special guests, with all proceeds going directly to benefit children at CMRF Crumlin and St Raphael’s Ward in Beaumont Hospital.
Wednesday 20
Gatehouse
The Dock, Carrick on Shannon 8.30pm €16/€14 thedock.ie
The rich musical tapestry of Roscommon and the North Connaught tradition are stitched deeply into the music of Gatehouse. Flute player John Wynne and fiddle player John McEvoy sally forth with concertina player Jacinta McEvoy and singer/guitarist Rachel Garvey for a final performance of the year in a welcoming venue. Expect some Scottish and Breton tunes too from a four piece who set the bar high in both the performance and arrangements stakes.
Thursday 21
Moya’s 10th anniversary Irish Christmas
Monkstown Church 7pm €21.46/€11.03 eventbrite.ie
Celebrating 10 years in performance at this venue each Christmas, Clannad vocalist and harpist, Moya Brennan brings a swathe of songs from the north west and beyond to tonight’s fund raiser in aid of the Craobh Music club and the Monkstown Church Restoration Fund. MC Blathnaid Ní Chofaigh will introduce some special guests, including members of Craobh Phiarais Uí Ghregáin, the local Comhaltas branch.
Friday 22
Gerry Cullen and friends
The Teacher's Club, 36, Parnell Square 9pm €3 goilin.com
One member of The Voice Squad, Cullen’s rich timbre will lead the annual gathering known as ‘Puddin’ Night’, where An Góilín’s members have been busy mixing and boiling a musical pudding that’s almost ready to be served, along with a generous helping of seasonal songs and carols from their very own Spirit of Christmas Present and his musical compadres.
