Folk Bands and Artists
Paddy Glackin
Since the early 1970’s Paddy Glackin has been regarded as one of the leading exponents of Irish Traditional Fiddle playing. Born and reared in Dublin he studied classical music at the College of Music but it was through his father Tom that he came learn and explore the world of Irish traditional fiddle playing. As a young fiddle player he was exposed to the music of Sligo through playing at sessions in Dublin with flautist John Egan and a host of other musicians from the North Connacht area. However his major inspiration was the legendary Donegal fiddler John Doherty whom Paddy met as a ten year old at the Reelin Bridge in 1964. Doherty opened up a new world of tunes and technique that inspires him to this day.
Over many years he has functioned mostly as a soloist and collaborating with other musicians such as John Regan, Liam O Flynn, Micheal O Domhnaill ,Robbie Hannan and Donal Lunny. He is in regular demand to perform at concerts and festival across Europe. He was a founding member of the Bothy Band and was also a member of Ceoltoiri Laighean, LAPD and more recently Ushers Island. His other musical collaborations have brought him into the world of contemporary 20th century music working with composers John Cage and more recently Terri Riley.
Paddy was an influential broadcaster and presented such pioneering programmes as The Long Note on RTE Radio1 and the Pure Drop, He was the first Traditional Music officer of the Arts Council and held a number of senior editorial positions in RTE until 2012.
