A Song for Brian O'Donovan
Brian O'Donovan was an extraordinary man.
Born just over the road in Clonakilty, he spent most of his life in Boston where he became the city's premier champion of Celtic music and culture. He was a regular visitor to our festival for many years, including last year while he was battling his illness, and was undoubtedly our number one Stateside promoter, sending countless visitors our way through his radio show A Celtic Sojourn
Brian was known for his generous spirit, kindness and mentorship and he touched the lives of many in the music industry. He truly was a great friend, so kind and so positive, always ready to offer advice and support, and he took great pride in seeing our festival grow.
Éilís Kennedy is a singer and songwriter steeped in the culture and rich heritage of West Kerry. A consummate story teller, she has toured the world and is a sought-after teacher of Irish Traditional song.
We couldn't really have a tribute to Brian without a singer from west Cork. Primary school principal Brendan McCarthy is one of the finest singers in the region and has been performing with local legends Open The Taps for over 20 years.
Renowned guitarist and songwriter Gerry O’Beirne is a master of the six and twelve string and many other stringed instruments. His lyrical and passionate songs such as the Holy Ground and Western Highway have been recorded by Mary Black, Maura O’Connell, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh among many others.
Christy Leahy has been playing the accordion since he was a young lad and was a founder member of the iconic band North Cregg who are making a welcome return visit to Fiddle Fair this weekend.
