Damien Connolly
All-Ireland accordion and melodeon champion from Co. Clare
Damien Connolly hails from Killaloe, Co. Clare.
Born into one of the liveliest houses for Irish music in the County, Damien
learned the accordion from his father, Martin – a leading box player and
renowned accordion maker – and, later, the fiddle from his step mother,
Maureen Glynn.
In 1997, Damien took first place in both the Under-18 All
Being far from home, Damien particularly enjoys any opportunity to share the company and musicianship of his uncle Seamus. Damien is currently working on an Irish Accordion Tutor book, which will be ready for release this summer.
Reviews
"The musical gatherings in Connolly's front room in the late 50's in
Killaloe live on in my memory. My friendship with Seamus Connolly (surely one of
the great fiddlers of the 20th century) had developed rapidly. Our desire to
play, learn - and learn about other musicians - brought us together on a regular
basis. The musical nights in the Connolly household were unforgettable. The
enthusiasm and encouragement from Mick and Lena Connolly will remain with me
forever. It is with great delight that I listen to this first recording by
Damien Connolly. He is the third generation of a musical family that I've
admired all my life. Here is a young man showing great musicianship, great
taste, and great respect. Pointed in the right direction by his father Martin,
(himself a major figure in Irish traditional music) it couldn't be any other
way. Tradition goes on - it's a lovely album. You can't beat breeding. Enjoy the
music."
--Joe Burke on "Tippin' Away"
"A recent visit to accordion maker Martin Connolly afforded me the
opportunity of hearing his son Damien's new recording. This excellent CD
demonstrates a deep knowledge of both melodeon and the accordion. It also ecokes
memories of the old 78 rpm recordings of melodeon players from the 1920's era.
Damien's rhythmic, spirited, and imaginative style is like a breath of fresh
air."
--Bobby Gardiner on "Tippin' Away"
"Tippin' Away is an impressive debut album from young button accordionist,
Damien Connolly. His striking technique and control of the different instruments
he uses are evident, as he tastefully weaves his way through a well-crafted and
delightfully eclectic mixture of tunes. His playing, always crisp and lucid,
reveals his understanding of contemporary traditional Irish styling, as well as
the French and French-Canadian idoms. Pete Mancuso's guitar accompaniment, while
solid, is never over done. No gimmicks here...just great playing."
--Joe Derrane on "Tippin' Away"
(The Magazine for the Academy of Our Lady of Mercy | Lauralton Hall.)
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