On Saturday August 18th local man Martin Lawlor (right) and Banjo player Kieran Ferry set off for the Fleadh Cheoil in Cavan. They said they would be celebrating win, lose or draw. The standard of the bodhrán over 18s competition was very high. There were 15 people from all over the world entering, including Amy Richter from America and James Dolin from Dublin.
The winner was Paul McClure from Co. Donegal. Niall Quinn from Co. Down came second and Martin Lawlor third. Martin, who is visually impaired said, “the bodhrán playing had gone up another level this year. The judge, Helen McLoughlin had a very hard job.” Martin says he was happy to be there and really enjoyed the whole experience. He would like to thank his friend Kieran Ferry for all his help.
Martin plans on going to Derry next summer, but just as a spectator as he may take a break from competitive bodhrán playing until he finishes his Diploma in Traditional Irish Music in Ballyfermot College. He did exceptionally well in his first year, getting distinctions in all eight subjects.
In college, he is currently working on making a traditional Irish CD called ‘The Dancing Goat’. Martin got some of his best friends, including Kieran Ferry on banjo, Barry McGee on concertina, Alan Curtain on bouzouki and Shirley Rodgers on flute and whistle to play on the album, which will be available next year when he has completed his diploma.
Martin would like to thank Rob Faulkner, an American bodhrán maker who has made his latest drum, as he feels it is one of the best drums he has ever played. He would also like to give a mention to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, dedicated to the promotion of the music, song, dance and language of Ireland.
By Jason McDonnell
