Kevin Conneff and Dublin Trio Set to Dazzle Irish Music Fans

This weekend, audiences at The Irish Cultural Centre in London will have the opportunity to experience the enchanting sounds of traditional Irish music as Kevin Conneff, the former bodhrán player and vocalist of The Chieftains, leads his new ensemble, the Dublin Trio. The group, which includes renowned musicians Joe McKenna on pipes and Tony Byrne on guitar, promises a captivating performance that highlights their deep love for Irish music.

The Dublin Trio: A New Chapter

The Dublin Trio showcases the remarkable talent of its members, each boasting an extensive history in live performance. Conneff’s career with The Chieftains began in 1976 and has since evolved through various collaborations and performances across the globe. A Dubliner at heart, he first became enamored with traditional music in the 1960s, attending fleadhanna ceoil and soaking in the rich cultural heritage of Ireland.

Conneff recalls those early days, saying, “I remember hitching rides with friends, sleeping in hay barns, and enjoying tins of Denny’s stew.” His passion for traditional Irish music was further ignited by frequent visits to local venues like O’Donoghue’s and The Pipers Club. He later founded the prestigious Tradition Club in Slattery’s of Capel Street, where he hosted many legendary artists including Willie Clancy and Séamus Ennis.

Conneff’s musical journey has not only included touring with The Chieftains but also collaborations with celebrated artists from various genres, such as Mary Bergin and Jeff White. He reflects on his extensive career with a sense of nostalgia, emphasizing the importance of musical connections and shared experiences.

Anticipation for Upcoming Performances

As the Dublin Trio prepares for their performance this Sunday, September 21, 2023, at The Irish Cultural Centre, excitement is palpable. Conneff expresses his eagerness, stating, “We haven’t played a gig for a while, and we’re looking forward to it.” He acknowledges the fun and seriousness involved in performing live, a lesson learned from his years with Paddy Moloney, the late founder of The Chieftains.

During the conversation, Conneff discussed the nerves that accompany live performances. “Oddly enough, I get nervous,” he admits. “But once we get into the swing of things, the nervousness fades away.” His dedication to maintaining the vibrancy of traditional Irish music is evident, and he is excited to share new material with audiences.

The trio’s formation came about after Conneff felt an urge to create a new project. After informal jam sessions with McKenna and Byrne, the idea of the Dublin Trio was born. “We decided, ‘Why not call ourselves the Dublin Trio?’ It felt fitting,” he shared. Their first major gig was at the Séamus Ennis Centre, where the reception was overwhelming, even during the challenging times of COVID-19.

Looking ahead, Conneff has ambitious plans for the trio, stating, “We’re doing the Dublin Tradfest next January, and we hope to keep this going as long as we can.” His enthusiasm for the project is infectious, and he aims to explore a variety of musical styles while remaining true to their roots.

For those interested in experiencing the rich tapestry of Irish music, Kevin Conneff and the Dublin Trio invite you to their concert this weekend. Doors open at 19:00, and the event promises to be a memorable celebration of traditional music. Additionally, Conneff will host a workshop, “An Evening of Song and Rhythm,” on Monday, September 22, 2023, offering an opportunity for fans to engage further with this beloved art form.

In the realm of traditional Irish music, Conneff’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of cultural expression, and the Dublin Trio stands poised to carry that legacy forward.