Martin comes from a family of musicians and raconteurs of traditional stories. The family has its roots in Co. Armagh. At an early age Martin developed a keen interest in traditional music and especially that of the Button accordion.
Martin took up the accordion in 1981and since has become regarded as one of its finest exponent's.
Martin began his professional career as a musician in 1994, since then he has toured with various bands including Lá Lugh and Dorsa, performing and teaching workshops at festivals in France, Finland, Italy Switzerland Britain and Germany Austria, Belgium, Romania,Spain, Japan and the USA.
He has featured on TV and radio nationally and internationally and has contributed to Paul Bradley’s fine solo album "The Atlantic Roar" and more recently on Composer Josephine Keegan‘s double CD ‘Lifeswork’ contributing 2 tracks and also 2 tracks to County Louth fiddler Gerry O’Connor’s CD ‘Journey Man’
In 2003, Martin along with Angelina Carberry released their self titled CD .
The CD received crticical acclaim across the Traditional music world, being included in the top 10 list of Traditional recordings of that year compiled by renowned Music columnist Earle Hitchner of the Irish Echo, one of America’s leading Irish newspapers.
In 2005 Martin contributed 2 tracks to Angelina’s solo album an Traidisiun Beo as well as co producing the project.
When not busy performing, Martin is in keen demand as an accordion tuner/repairer and also as an accordion tutor.
well well well............................................................................................................................................................................................
Wasn't fit for the Williamite thing either - jet-lag got the better of me - starting to sound like King James! But will probably go there tomorrow to survey the casualties! Had a great time in Port Townsend!
Ah! Young Quinn of Armagh! I remember you well from the old days. Are you still pushing all them buttons in front of large audiences? tis a habit thats hard to kick and no less for myself - i say as i return from the festival of american fiddle tunes after an absolutlely exhilhirating time for an ole egg suckin' dawayg laiyke muiy... will i see you at the william week in the towne of malbay in county of claire? tis there i will reepair in the days that are to follow!
It's a handy job for a message board, is about the best way I see it.
Don't think I'll make Miltown to be honest, as I'm getting married now on the 8th August, and our Ruadhrai's arranged my stag for the 12th July in Carrick On Shannon. Sure if Miltown's getting a bit crowded / messy, land up to Carrick, but can't guarentee it'll be any less messy :)
Thanks for the friend request and all that "NETiquette"!
^^ I hate saying that, but apparantly it's the done thing in this MySpace malarky!
Have a great one in Miltown!
Best,
Murrough
P.S. Gimme a shout if you need the MySpace page fancying up and such.
Thanks, Martin, for adding our duo to your site. We have great respect for your talent. Great cuts you're sharing here!! Vonnie from 2 Bits (hammered dulcimer and piano)
