Gerald Culhane grew up in the townland of Ballyguiltenane near the picturesque village of Glin, Co. Limerick. The village and the castle lie on the banks of the Shannon estuary and the castle was once home to the Knights of Glin for centuries.

His interest in traditional music, and the accordion in particular, goes back to childhood where he attended weekly music classes at the Old Courthouse in Glin and the Friday night sessions at Collins bar in Athea. He was inspired by the many great musicians and characters that make up the West Limerick tradition of music, song and dance. He now resides in Beaufort, Co. Kerry with the majestic McGillycuddy Reeks as the back drop to daily life.

In 2025, in conjunction with Matt Cranitch, he published a book of 67 of his own compositions called ‘The iron bridge‘.  Some of his compositions bear names such as The devil’s ladder, Cnoc na péiste, The road to Beaufort, Churchtown, Tomies wood, O’Sullivan’s cascade, The iron bridge, The wishing bridge and The Blackstone’s, all inspired by his adopted Kerry home.