Galway’s Monroe’s on Dominick Street has scooped the prestigious IMRO award for Connacht’s live music venue of the year.
There were celebrations at the Sugar Club in Dublin as Gary and Robert Monroe were joined by Peter O’Sullivan, Máire Joyce and Chloe Micallef at the ceremony when they were crowned regional winners.
The historic venue, nestled between the West and Claddagh village, overlooking the Spanish Arch and Galway Bay, was shortlisted by over 18,000 members of the Irish Music Rights Organisation. The award was assessed by Ireland's songwriters, composers, and publishers on several criteria including general ambience, staging, sound and lighting, diversity of music, artist relations and venue promotion.
“It’s fantastic for all of the team,” said Gary Monroe, “upstairs and downstairs."
“We want to extend our thanks to all our loyal and wonderful customers for supporting and voting for us. It’s a massive team effort by so many. And we are so grateful to all the musicians that make Monroe’s so special when they perform here.
“I’d like to acknowledge every nominated venue, as I know how hard it can be to juggle and organise so many gigs weekly. This is really special for us, for our staff, and we are honoured to have brought the award back to Galway.”
The IMRO awards recognise the leading role that live music venues play in developing and supporting the music community in Ireland. As a family-owned business, Monroe’s has shown a firm commitment to live music since the 1960s.
From folk and Americana to rock, metal and pop, Monroe’s presents up and coming bands alongside seasoned musicians, giving them a platform to develop a new west of Ireland audience.
Promoter and booker Peter O’Sullivan works first hand with artists at the venue to bring a feast of entertainment to the city, supporting both local and international acts.
“We are delighted to have won this award and to have been nominated alongside such prestigious venues,” said Peter.
“This is a credit to all the artists who have performed with us and especially to the crew behind the scenes, who make these gigs possible. I am really looking forward to bringing even more live music to Galway. It’s going to be an exciting year ahead.”
Additionally, club night promotor Gary Collins brings the best of dance music and rhythm to Monroe’s Live. Not only that, but Gary Monroe works tirelessly with the bands in the intimate and relaxed downstairs setting at the Tavern, bringing a wealth of talent to the stage with free live music seven nights a week.
Regular gigs include the West Sessions on Friday, the Galway Bay Jazz band on Sunday afternoons and resident folk powerhouse Don Stiffe every Wednesday evening before their popular Salsa nights.
IMRO Chairperson Eleanor McEvoy acknowledged the award winners for their commitment to live music “after a difficult few years.”
“Enormous praise is due to each of our award winners,” she states. “These venues have been recognised for their excellence and for their contribution to live music across Ireland.”
For more information on all upcoming gigs and events check out www.monroes.ie or call 091 583 397.
