Sinéad McKenna – Thursday 11th July – Regional Cultural Centre
Released in March 2024, Sinéad’s debut album ‘Faoi Lán Ceoil’ illustrates her authenticity, skill, and mastery of the fiddle. Her singing in both Irish and English marries haunting melodic lines with sensitive and colourful arrangements of traditional songs.
Is ceannródaí í Sinéad a bhfuil mianach an cheoil inti, a saothar nua-chumtha den scoth fite fuaite lena sárthuiscint ar cheoil traidisiúnta agus ar amhráin mealltacha a sinsir.
Accompanied by Micky Fearon (Guitar) and Rachael Masterson (Piano), with guest appearances from her brother Peter McKenna (Uilleann Pipes), Oisín Murphy (Banjo) and Brendy Loughran (Concertina) this album breaks new ground and celebrates an emerging generation of dynamic McKenna fiddle players.
“…there are many reasons to immediately celebrate her debut album, Faoi Lán Ceoil. First and foremost, it’s her sheer, utter and unbridled musicality – it bounces off the recording. There’s an undeniable joy in it all. For one so young, her craft and technique as a fiddle-player, singer and composer are second to none – these finely-honed skills enable her to travel to, and to share with us, that magical space where music enters an extra dimension, where both player and listener are transported to another place. Only the best of musicians can do this. The arc and lines of her playing and singing are as clean and clear as lark song, and the youthful vigour and
boldness of it all is utterly compelling. Put alongside that the choice of material, the originality of the arrangements, the high production standards and the delightful contributions from her very fine co-performers, and we have here a timeless gem.” Neil Martin
“…I’m delighted to hear Sinéad McKenna’s new, and indeed first, solo recording. Welcome, Sinéad–an amazing player with a gritty style that I love! There are great tunes and wonderful variations played with flare throughout this CD, by a player who obviously loves dense, rich tunes. With a terrific bow hand and an altogether deft touch on the fiddle, Sinéad’s music is bursting with imagination. This is a fabulous debut!" Liz Carroll
Sinéad will be joined for the concert by Micky Fearon – Guitar, Rachel Masterson – Piano with special guests Oisin Murphy – Banjo and Paul McClure – Bodhrán