Another thing I miss about Galway are the Tunes in the Church summer Trad concerts at St. Nicholas’ Church. Some of the best entertainment in the country comes to play here. Since I was in the neighborhood I had to attend.
Clíodhna Ní Bheaglaoich opened the concert on fiddle and viola, and while the next artist, Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin played flute she did a little sean nós dancing.
Clíodhna Ní Bheaglaoich
Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin
There’s a new feature to the evening – a mini tour of the church by host Chris during the interval which points out some of the unique features like an apprentice pillar as well as the reason why some of the carvings are missing their visage (Cromwell).
Most of that I already knew, having done quite a bit of exploring inside the church, seldom going more than a visit or two without finding something new and interesting. Today I was intrigued by some of the outside decorations. These faces look down from the right of the main entrance. I find it fascinating that these ancient holy buildings carry so many images of mythical as well as pagan images. Maybe there was a time when faiths intermingled without prejudice.
Greetings and Welcome to St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Galway
Please be prepared to join in joyful song
The second half featured Bernadette and Jacqueline McCarthy on fiddle and concertina, respectively. Not only are these sisters entertaining in the musical sense but they add little stories about their tunes which makes the concert even more enjoyable. In traditional Irish fashion, the finale consisted of the McCarthy’s and Eoghan providing the music while Clíodhna performed one last dance number.
The McCarthy sisters
Feet a-movin’ a little too fast even for my new camera
Yes, I sorely miss Galway, but will be returning soon for another visit.
Mdmusings Ireland Blog 
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