Martin Donohoe and the Irish Gang
A native of Cavan Town, Martin Donohoe is a gifted traditional musician in his own right but spends a lot of his time promoting and producing other people’s work, having a particular passion for all things Cavan-related – its music, its culture, its people. Martin is highly regarded in traditional circles for his dynamic personal style on the accordion with his choice of tasteful settings, improvisation and his unique individual interpretation of the music.
Martin was the All Ireland Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Fleadh Cheoil 2010/2011 and 2012 events and entertainment chair. The All-Ireland Fleadh is Ireland’s largest festival of music, song and dance, and for the last three years has been held in Martin’s home town, attracting over 350,000 visitors and 11,000 musicians to Cavan from all over the world.
Joining Martin are his Gang - a troupe of cracking Irish musicians. Mickey McDonnell is a well-known bouzouki, banjo and guitar player who specialises in traditional Irish tunes, many of which originate his native northern part of the country. From Lismehy, in Strokestown, Seán Owens is a third-generation, talented representative of the time-honoured and highly revered tradition of flute playing that emanates from this part of the country. One of Ireland’s leading young flute, whistle and saxophone players, Savannah Donohoe has featured extensively on TV and radio, and is soon to release her debut solo album. Fiddler Brid Harper is originally from Donegal, and now lives near Dungannon, Co. Tyrone. A previous All-Ireland champion she has been hailed as one of the leading exponents of traditional Irish fiddle playing.