A young generation of musicians are ensuring traditional music is alive and well in County Clare.
Clare has a long and strong tradition of traditional music and the people of the Banner County retain that passion.
Áine Hensey presents The Mist Covered Mountain on Clare FM. The programme goes out five nights a week with a focus on Irish traditional and folk music. She believes that young people in County Clare have a deep connection to the music. They learn tunes and get together for sessions, carrying on a tradition.
All Ireland concertina champions Bríd and Ruth Meaney are part of this new generation of traditional musicians. In addition to giving lessons to her younger sister, Bríd also teaches a concertina class. Being a part time musician has advantages.
When you play in pubs you get paid for it, mostly.
Fiddle player Ivan O'Connor is another All-Ireland champion. He took up the fiddle when he was nine years old, and spent up to three hours a day practising, such was his devotion.
He also has had the honour of playing the opening music at the launch of Clare FM in September 1989. Áine Hensey describes him as a fine musician who is,
Very much into the whole tradition, where the music comes from.
This episode of 'Jo-Maxi' was broadcast on 28 February 1990. The reporter is Clíona Ní Bhuachalla.
