Patrick O’Keeffe Traditional Music Festival
Sliabh Luachra, long acknowledged as more a state of mind than a geographical entity in north Kerry, has spawned more than its share of remarkable musicians: Jackie Daly, Johnny O’Leary, Denis Murphy, Julia Clifford, Paddy Cronin and the great blind fiddler, Tom Billy Murphy, to name but a few. But there can be no disputing that Patrick O’Keeffe sits in centre stage in that gathering. O’Keeffe’s repertoire has seeped into the collective subconscious of traditional musicians, thanks to the Seamus Ennis recordings of 1948/49 and later Ciarán Mac Mathúna.
This festival pairs tutors with musical students, provides live music sessions throughout the town, honours musicians with the Dedication to the Music of Sliabh Luchra award and provides and lively and engaging session trail during the festival. Due to its wide appeal the festival will be a week-long celebration in 2022.
