Egans – A Great Place to Hear Traditional Irish Music
Traditional Irish music has always been an important part of nights in Egans Bar. In Parkbridge, near Shillelagh there has been a long history of memorable events, which stretch down through the years. The mixture of acoustics from the oak floor and furnishings make for a great sound. Furthermore, the atmosphere always works well with this to make musical evenings flourish. Click on the video below to hear the great Ritchie Timmons singing the song The Rocks of Bawn.
Well Known Peformers
Some of the most celebrated traditional music performers in the country have played shows in Egans. A variety of these have included artists on the national circuit. You might know some of these: Seán Tyrrell, Jimmy Crowley, Joe Burke (with Anne-Conroy Burke, Michael Cooney and Terry Corcoran). Others who have been to Egans include; Gay Woods, Mary McNamara, Mick Kinsella and Johnny Connolly. A great many more have also played there and Egans has become known as a hidden gem in Wicklow. See below the great piper Joey Abarta and his partner the great dancer and concertina player Jackie Reilly who were passing through on a trip from Boston, USA.
Informal Traditional Irish Music Sessions
Importantly, Egans have also been hosting informal traditional Irish music sessions for decades. These have become particularly prominent between the mid nineties up to recent times. Also, these sessions sometimes include musicians, singers, set dancers, seanchaí (story tellers). There have even been poetry recitals. As a result, performers have often travelled from far away places. It is not known beforehand what way these nights will turn out. However, the customer is guaranteed a good night when any performer turns up to play.
The Egan Brothers
Below is a YouTube video clip of the two Egan brothers playing in Kilkenny in the early 1990s. While they are not at home always, Patrick and Larry continue to play. They very often bring musicians back to Egans for a session.
Almost all of the traditional Irish music sessions occur spontaneously. Local musicians (and often local customers) taking part, usually on Saturday nights. If you are in the area, be sure to let us know. Contact Larry or Mary to find out if there is live music on the way this month! (087 2248420 or info “at” egansbar.com).
Below is a photo gallery of just some of the range of performers who have been coming to Egans over the years.