Other Voices: Songs from Sliabh Luachra

By Pat Fleming, Sliabh Luachra Musician

Firstly, thanks to everyone involved for all the encouragement and to everyone who attended. It was a great night for the community and was very well supported locally, and it was good to remind everyone of the kind of local talent we have. We started just barely after 8, and the evening was still bright. As darkness fell, even with the light in Culturlann MacAmhlaoibh, the atmosphere just grew. Everyone was settled in, and the building, lighting, and the mood all rose to the occasion. The night captured everything - song, poetry, music, and dance, as the audience as utterly embodying the music. You can’t orchestrate that. And you can’t orchestrate the love shown for Timmy O’Connor either. We brought him up on the stage and the crowd went mad!

The place was pure electric, and with every tune, the atmosphere rose and rose. He’s a crucial ingredient, and it was fantastic to see the respect given to him. He’s 87, he’s been playing the box a long time, and the music has not gone out of fashion. We only scratched the surface – there’s so many other great musicians that could have, should have, hopefully will be included. You can only fill so many in on the night. My own daughter Cara and her friend were in the front row, winking and throwing the thumbs up. When I get that thumbs up, I know we’re on form. Young people just need to experience the vibe at least once, then give it a go to see what they can achieve with their own music.

Following the main event, we got together in the Rock bar for a session. So many people had travelled from all over to see the show and wanted to join in the tunes. We were there until the wee hours, dancing and playing with some phenomenal musicians. And since then, the night has brought people to me who I never knew listened to it. It’s what I wanted from the night - this music and culture is in our blood, in our DNA, and it’s brought out so much community. If you want to join in that community, to learn more, or to join one of the sessions, visit us in the Rock Bar. Every Wednesday 7 until 9, all musicians are welcome.