This month we highlight memorable music from the Larry Redican and Sue and Eric Thompson collections, focusing on the distinctive flute traditions of Sligo-Roscommon and East Galway. The selection brings together archive recordings, regional style, and living musical influence, offering a chance to hear how these flute players shaped repertoire, technique, and taste across generations. 

Peter Horan, Larry McDonagh and Josie McDermott were all well-known figures at the time of these recordings, and we are fortunate that the Thompsons captured these classic performances demonstrating the distinctive regional style of flute playing. Another familiar figure from that time, James Murray, now is his late 70s, plays sets of reels which reflect his musicianship and virtuosity. A recent CD release with James and Jimmy Murphy is another example of distinctive Sligo flute-fiddle duet playing. I’m happy that the collection includes Patsy Hanley of Roscommon, who remains a major figure in Irish music, and here plays as a member of the 1973 Comhaltas US tour. 

Paddy Carty was a legendary figure in East Galway. His mastery of the Boehm flute allowed his repertoire to include many fiddle tunes, including compositions by his neighbour Paddy Fahey. Here, Paddy is joined by friends Paddy Doorey and Lucy Farr. 

Jack Coen was a renowned flute player from East Galway who lived most of his life in the US, and formed part of the famous New York Céilí Band with his long-term friend Larry Redican. Another Galway man, Vincent Broderick, was both a notable flute player and composer. These tunes come from a famous recording made in the Pipers Club, Dublin, around 1958, and include one of Vincent’s own compositions. 

We hope this month’s playlist encourages listeners to hear these archive recordings not only as historic performances, but as living sources for today’s musicians and listeners. 

Enjoy,
Pádraic