Brian McNamara Uilleann Piper from So. Leitrim Saturday, June 17th 8:00 PM, $15, {Workshop in piping from 3PM to 5PM  $25.00 PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED! Call  (610) 486-2220} (Children under 12 free)

Brian on YouTube!

Brian McNamara is the eldest sibling of the renowned musical McNamara family of County Leitrim. In 1979 at the age of 12 he was introduced to the Uilleann Pipes by family friend Peter Maguire, a native of County Cavan. Before receiving his first piping lesson from Peter, Brian had learned to play the tin whistle under the guidance of his father, flute player Michael McNamara. His first set of pipes was made by his mentor, Mr. Maguire. Brian has always expressed his indebtedness to Peter for everything he has selflessly given as pipe-maker and teacher. Piping lessons, together with the strong musical influence of his family meant that Brian rapidly became an accomplished player. In addition to his deep love of the music of the older pipers, he was always a big admirer of contemporary pipers including Liam O'Flynn as he mastered his instrument and developed his style.

During the 1980s Brian competed at Fleadhanna Cheoil (traditional music festivals in Ireland), winning many All-Ireland titles. In the last 25 years he has traveled extensively as a working traditional musician and is presently a sought-after instructor at Irish music workshops and summer schools both in Ireland and the United States. In 1998 he produced and performed on the award winning CD 'Leitrim's Hidden Treasure'. This featured Brian and other members of the McNamara family in a recording which gave exposure to a unique repertoire of music associated with South Leitrim. Brian subsequently launched his debut solo recording 'A Piper's Dream' to widespread acclaim, and its stunning follow-up, 'Fort of the Jewels'. "In contrast to the fast-and-furious playing favored by many pipers, Brian prefers a less turbo-charged style, closer to the kind of piping heard in Leitrim long ago. Seasoned listeners will appreciate his perfect intonation, beautiful chordal accompaniment and deftly fingered triplets."   --  Don Meade, The Irish Voice, NYC. Sound clips from Brian's three CDs

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