Focus

The Beethoven Connection The Beethoven Connection Toner Quinn The Midwinter Festival in Galway focused on early Beethoven this year, and brought a renowned piano-violin partnership to the west. Toner Quinn reviews.
The Waiting Place The Waiting Place Andrea Cleary Singer-songwriter Aoife Nessa Frances has just released her debut album 'Land of No Junction', a collection of songs rooted in the experience of millennial life. Andrea Cleary reviews.
The Composer as Raconteur The Composer as Raconteur Mark Fitzgerald A memoir and diary belonging to the composer Brian Boydell (1917–2000) have recently been published in a book titled 'Rebellious Ferment', focusing in particular on his life and work in the 1940s and 50s. Mark Fitzgerald reviews.
The Freedom of Finality The Freedom of Finality Jake Tiernan In his latest review for our Galway City and County Music Writer Mentoring Scheme, Jake Tiernan reviews the final concert by rock quartet Otherkin as part of their farewell tour.
It's Up to Us: How to Grow Your Record Label in the 2020s It's Up to Us: How to Grow Your Record Label in the 2020s Gareth Murphy There's a reason why some countries export more good music than everywhere else, and it’s down to the health of their independent label scene. But what are the secrets to starting and running a successful record label, and how can you avoid the classic mistakes? Gareth Murphy explains how to survive an unpredictable game.
Life on a Wing Life on a Wing Ian Bascombe Singer-songwriter Mike Hanrahan's book, 'Beautiful Affair: A Journey in Music, Food and Friendship', mixes anecdotes from his musical career, including his time with Stockton's Wing and Ronnie Drew, with his life in cookery. Ian Bascombe reviews.
Leave Fear at the Door Leave Fear at the Door Kerri Haberlin In her second review for our Galway City and County Music Writer Mentoring Scheme, Kerri Haberlin reviews a performance by songwriter David Keenan at the Róisín Dubh, ahead of the release of his debut album.
Crossing Distance Crossing Distance Massimo Cattaneo Four-piece Nava have just released their latest album blending Irish and Persian music. Massimo Cattaneo reviews.
A New Tune Tapestry A New Tune Tapestry Kevin McCullagh In the first review from our new Traditional Music Writer Mentoring Scheme, supported by the Arts Council's Deis scheme, Kevin McCullagh reviews a performance at the Ulster Folk Museum by the traditional music quartet of Elaine Hogan, Pádraig Rynne, Tara Breen and Conor Crimmins.
The Harp and Soul of Ireland The Harp and Soul of Ireland Toner Quinn Irish harping has been given recognition by UNESCO. It is an important moment for Irish music, writes Toner Quinn.

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