Live music extravaganza at Mayo arts centre

THE Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar has shared details of next month’s multi-genre, live music line-up, which boasts some of Connaught’s most illustrious musicians and performers.

Commencing on Friday, April 4, is Mayo’s very own Alannah Thornburgh, award-winning instrumentalist and composer, most recently receiving the Best Folk Instrumentalist gong at RTÉ Radio 1’s Folk Awards in February.

Specialising in traditional Irish harp, her music blends Irish harping with elements of American folk and jazz, creating a unique fusion of old melodies and contemporary techniques. Described by The Irish Times as “unforced, fluid, and utterly at home in her own sound”, Alannah’s debut solo album, Shapeshifter, draws inspiration from Irish fairy folklore and the landscapes of Co. Mayo.

ULTAN CONLON

Ultan Conlon and Band, whose gigs have been hailed 'a rare treat', will be welcomed to the Linenhall on Saturday, April 12. Admired for his original music, animated story telling and infectious laughter, an atmospheric evening beckons.

Native to Galway, Ultan’s forthcoming album, The Starlight Ballroom, holds a deep connection to Mayo. Produced in LA by Grammy winner David Garza, it is inspired by the legendary Starlight Ballroom in Westport.

With tracks like ‘The Starlight Ballroom’ and ‘Paradise Lane,’ Ultan weaves tales of misfits, dreamers, and forgotten lovers, in tandem with his band, featuring both Jimmy Higgins Jnr and Snr alongside Miceal O'Connor.

TRAIN ROOM

Mayo act Train Room, the brainchild of singer, songwriter and producer Joe Monaghan, will present an intimate album showcase on Thursday, April 17, coinciding with the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, Station Road.

Following the success of debut EP, ‘Delicate Bones', and stand-out performances at Hard Working Class Heroes Festival, Train Room has garnered widespread esteem and radio play across Ireland and internationally, with undoubtedly more to come.

MORE LOCAL TALENT

Also to look forward to are the talents of St. Gerald’s DLS music department, enthralling audiences with their spring recital on Wednesday, April 2. Sixty students from both junior and senior cycles will demonstrate their musical prowess, performing solos, group pieces and ensemble works with remarkable skill and flair.

To Thursday, April 24, when the award-winning Cill Aodáin Choral Society, a community choir from Kiltimagh and its surrounds, take to the stage. Under the musical direction of Finóla Higgins, this collective of over 50 members will fill the hall with its uplifting sounds, a performance sure to leave a lasting impression.

View ‘What’s On’ and book online via www.thelinenhall.com. Alternatively, contact the box office team with queries on (094) 9023733.