Can you imagine what it would feel like to win a Grammy award? Now, imagine having six of them! Matt Molloy, along with The Chieftains have just that – having won Grammy awards for Best Traditional Folk Album, Best World Music Album, Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals, Best Traditional Folk Album (twice ) and Best Contemporary Folk Album.
Locals, in Westport, are often lucky enough to hear Matt play a few tunes as he joins in the nightly sessions in his busy pub on Bridge Street, but rarely, if ever, get a chance to hear him perform in a concert setting. Matt and The Chieftains have played all over the world, in the largest and most prestigious music venues, and next week, on Thursday, September 29, a limited number of people will be privileged to hear Matt perform live in his own premises, Matt Molloy’s Yard Bar as part of this year’s Westport Arts Festival.
Matt, regarded as the greatest exponent of flute playing alive, a member of the Chieftains for more than two decades, and founder member of the legendary Bothy Band, will be joined on the evening by two other legends of Irish traditional music, John Carty and Arty McGlynn. John Carty’s musical prowess has grown steadily since his debut recording 20 years ago and he has since produced a plethora of solo recordings. A member of the bands At the Racket and Patrick Street, John finds himself in constant demand as a musician.
Molloy and Carty are probably the most exciting trad combinations of recent times, as together they explore the rich and varied tapestry of the fiddle and flute tradition of North Connacht. Both Matt and John are recipients of the prestigious TG4 Traditional Musician of the Year Award. They are delighted to be joined by Ireland’s number one guitar player, Arty McGlynn. His subtle guitar playing is the perfect accompaniment to this unique duet.
This is a rare opportunity to hear Matt play in such an intimate setting, and tickets are selling fast, so be sure to book yours today. Tickets are on sale through the Town Hall Theatre Westport or online through www.westporttheatre.com
