Nashville-based Compass Records has grown to become the most reliable and exciting source for new Celtic music. While it seems there is no conventional story of musical success, Irish American Alison Brown’s path was particularly unique. A former investment banker, Brown is now recognized as a premier banjoist and has recorded such critically acclaimed solo albums as Fair … [Read more...] about Charting Celtic Music’s Way Forward
Tara Dougherty
Westport
By Tara Dougherty, Staff Writer.
A gem of the west County Mayo is the picturesque home of some of Ireland’s quaintest and most delightful towns. In Westport, traditional music is always bursting from doors of Matt Molloy’s pub, while visits to the Foxford Woolen Mills and the Museum of Country Life provide a taste of rural days in the idyllic west of Ireland. Then, of course, for another perspective on the … [Read more...] about Westport
Belfast
By Tara Dougherty, Staff Writer.
The Vibrant and Cultured City of the North Belfast is a city reborn. It blends the cultural sophistication of Europe with the unique history of the Irish and the vigor of a youthful population. Two highlights of Belfast to plan your trip around are the Titanic Quarter and Belfast’s legendary Festival at Queen’s University. THE TITANIC QUARTER IN BELFAST For those gripped by … [Read more...] about Belfast
Ballybunion Golf Club
By Tara Dougherty, Staff Writer .
A favorite of many and a sight to behold Located in County Kerry, the Ballybunion Golf Club is largely regarded as one of the best in the world, and it doesn’t take long to see why. A favorite of President Bill Clinton, Ballybunion consists of two courses which provide spectacular views through the rolling hills of County Kerry. With the sounds of the sea crashing just beside … [Read more...] about Ballybunion Golf Club
Irish Dance Nationals
A look at the 2011 North American Irish Dance Competition in Nashville, Tennessee On the July 4th weekend, the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center in Nashville, just a stone’s throw from the Grand Ole Opry, was descended upon by a mad rush of curly wigs, spray tans, accordions and fiddles. The North American Dance Competition ran for 4 days and over 3,000 dancers came, not … [Read more...] about Irish Dance Nationals