North Kerry lies between Sliabh Luachra and south-west County Clare, but has not received nearly as much attention in traditional music circles. There is, however, a long and distinguished musical history in the region, from the famous harper Nicholas Dall Pierse around 1600, through to 19th century fiddle masters such as Jeremiah Breen (some of whose music was printed by Francis O’Neill) and George Whelan (who was very influential on the music of south-west Clare).  Later, we have accordion player Tom Carmody (who recorded with the great Sligo fiddler James Morrison in the 1930s), and many highly regarded players of more recent times; as well as these, we are also aware of many fine traditional practitioners whose fame was purely local. We have no doubt that there is a vast untapped treasury of music, song, dance and lore out there, which we hope to explore and bring to a wider public.

  What is ‘Locals of Note’? Click here and find out all about it!

This project was successfully completed in December 2011

The principal aims of NKTMA are:

• Collecting and preserving the musical culture of North Kerry;

• Researching and analysing the repertoire and the playing, singing and dancing styles of the area;

• Making this rich heritage accessible to all who are interested in it, via a permanent archive, and outreach programmes in local schools.

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