From Clare to Mayo, Anne's journey of song

Clare people are noted for their love of music and song, and Anne Brady is no exception.

The former HR advisor gave up her job in London to settle down with her husband in Swinford, where over many trips they had fallen in love with the peace and tranquillity of the river Moy.

But she did not come to Mayo empty handed. She brought with her a passion for singing and a track record of performing going back to childhood days in County Clare.

Her father had recognised her talent at a young age, arranging voice training for her with the late Gerry Cronin in the traditional sean-nos style.

Soon she had joined a ballad group and also sang solo, but in between there were prestigious awards at Scor na nOg, Feile na hInse, and Ceol an Geimhridh.

She went on to join Ennis Singers and had the honour of singing with the late Robbie McMahon and Peadar McNamara in Fleadhanna and venues all over Munster.

“My biggest influences are Dolores Keane, the Carpenters, Liam Clancy, Liam Lawton, and Sean O' Riada,” she says.

By then much in demand for weddings and funerals, the career move to London came in 2000, but Anne continued to perform in various venues in London and Luton, including a gig with Daniel O'Donnell. And she was also in demand to sing 'as Gaeilge' for weddings and events in London.

Now back in Ireland with her husband and two children, Anne has returned to her singing and "enjoying it more than ever."

She has recently recorded a number of pieces which had airplay, and enjoyed a warm listener response, on Mid West Radio.

She has once more established herself as a church singer, available for weddings, church occasions and funerals, with a style mainly sean-nos and Gaeilge.

But, Anne adds, she also does contemporary music and will happily learn any new song, not in her repertoire, as requested by bride or family.

You can find more about Anne on Facebook, by e mail on annebradychurchsinger @ at 087-1711 448.