The Skerries Traditional Music Weekend is now a recognised cultural
event which has gone from strength to strength. Some changes are
made each year to further develop the content and appeal. 2009 sees
our 8th annual festival and we will continue with some focus on
Fingal tunes from the archives, as introduced last year. Workshops
will include banjo/mandolin for the first time and singing is back
again.
Once again, many of Ireland's leading exponents of traditional music
and dance will both teach and perform in local Skerries venues.
A high level of active participation is again anticipated - young
and old, with skills ranging from novice to advanced - in a wide
range of traditional activities.
Some of the musicians in town: Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh,
Paul O'Shaughnessy, Mick O'Brien, Emmett Gill, Seán McKeon,
John O'Brien, Garry O'Briain, Mary Bergin, Seán Ryan, John
Wynne, John Kelly Jnr., Jesse Smith, John & Jacinta McEvoy,
Micheál O'Raghallaigh, Máire O'Keeffe, Colm Gannon,
Marcus Maloney, Jane Morrin, Paudie O'Connor & Aoife Ní
Chaoimh, Dermy & Tara Diamond and singer Niamh Parsons.
In 2007 we started a schools outreach programme for Primary Schools
which continues this year as an interactive event with demonstration
& discussion. We are very grateful for continued sponsorship and
support from Fingal County Council's Community Cultural & Sports
Department, The Arts Council and local businesses.