FOLK LEGEND Pete Seeger, former US presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, and classical music great Yo Yo Ma, are among banjo player Michael J Miles’ fans.
The Chicago musician, educator, performer, and recording artist, praised by The New York Times and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band founder John McEuen, will take part in The Clarinbridge BANJO Gathering, from Friday April 12 to Sunday 14.
Miles will present his show From Senegal to Seeger on the Saturday in the function room of Paddy Burke’s, Clarinbridge. The show traces the history of the banjo from its roots in Africa to the present day. Michael is a master banjoist, guitarist, and orchestral composer. He is author of numerous theatrical works combining music and history, and an acclaimed music educator. Above all, he is passionate about the banjo. The evening will be rounded off with a session at Paddy Burke’s.
The Clarinbridge BANJO Gathering starts on Friday 12 with a ‘banjoree’ at Jordan’s featuring Des Mulkere and Charlie Harris plus guests.
On Saturday, banjo workshops will range from beginners to advanced and will cater for four and five string banjos. The four string workshops will be facilitated by Brian McGrath, Tom Cussen, and Dessie Kelliher, while Lena Ullman, Bill Forster, and Michael J Miles will facilitate five string workshops.
On Sunday, there will be a commemoration for musicians Peter Galligan and Harry Horan at Clarinbridge Cemetery at 12.30pm and at 1pm there will be a session in Jordan’s featuring visiting and special guests. The grand finale takes place in Sherry’s that evening with a host of musicians.
There will also be an exhibition of vintage instruments in a parlour setting at Clarinbridge Antiques and a tour of the Clareen Banjo workshop.
For more information and booking contact 086 - 8351230, email [email protected] or [email protected], or call Clarinbridge Antiques (091 - 796522 ) or Clareen Banjos (091 - 796156 ).
