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from Compositions by Hannah O’Brien
Encapsulating someone, or the essence of someone, in a tune is somewhat of a daunting task, but I was taken with a recording of “John Kelly’s” on Michael McGoldrick’s album “Arc.” I appreciated the almost barndance feel of the track and their choice to play in E flat – It feels special to attribute a tune to someone, especially someone who has been such a musical inspiration for me. “Andrew O’Brien’s Fiddle,” was written for my dad in response to “John Kelly’s Concertina.” We have always shared a love of slip jigs, and although we do not both share a love of playing in E flat (sorry dad!), we both resonate with the mellowed out feeling of the key. This is just a small thank you to my dad for being such an encouraging and supportive person in my life, and I hope to keep passing on and celebrating his love of making and sharing music.