Following his critically-acclaimed duet album with fiddler John McEvoy in 2007, Roscommon flute-player John Wynne releases a new album which brings his solo playing back into focus.
Ar Nós na nGaoithe/ Like the Wind is an absorbing collection of 14 virtuosic tracks, played with precision, discernment, and breathtaking control. Nine years after his debut solo album, With Every Breath, John Wynne was compelled to make this second album, sensing his playing had turned a corner and that he had something new to offer.
As flute-player Conal Ó Gráda writes on the sleevenotes, “In flute playing, the elemental link between music and breath creates a dynamic tension of its own…John moves air through a flute with aplomb. In turns powerful and commanding…be prepared to be blown away!”
A repertoire of popular session tunes which John learned from musicians over the years, Ar Nós na nGaoithe/ Like the Wind also includes new compositions from fiddle players Tommy Peoples, Ed Reavy, Martin McGinley and Liz Knowles.
Originally from Roscommon, John Wynne began playing tin whistle at eight and subsequently learned flute from Patsy Hanley. Hearing Sligo flute-player Peter Horan in full flow in the 1980s made a lasting impression, as did the solo recordings of Seamus Tansey and Matt Molloy.
He recorded two albums with the band Providence with whom he toured for several years, and is a member of the Roscommon Traditional Arts Forum, a pioneering organisation which released the album The Flute Players of Roscommon, which John produced. John Wynne is a regular tutor at summer schools and workshops in Ireland and beyond.
Ar Nós na nGaoithe/Like the Wind will be launched this Monday June 29 at 8pm in Doorly's/Corner House Pub, Roscommon Town. All are welcome.
