IRISH MUSICIAN

ANDY IRVINE

WITH RENS VAN DER ZALM

SUNDAY, MAY 11

7:00 PM

Andy Irvine has spent 40 years on the road. From Sweeney's Men in the 60's, to the enormous success of PLANXTY in the 70's, to THE Irish super group, PATRICK STREET  in the 80's to the present, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians. His is a traveling lifestyle that reflects his lifelong influence, Woody Guthrie. Few others can equal his repertoire: Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dance tunes and a compelling canon of his own material that defies description. PATRICK STREET, originally billed as Legends of Irish Music (along with Kevin Burke of Bothy Band, Jackie Daly of De Danaan and guitarist Arty McGlynn--now with Ged Foley) has recorded to date 8 albums on the Green Linnet label. In 2002, Andy enticed the help from some long-time musical friends and formed his 'dream band' named  MOZAIK with Donal Lunny, Dutch guitarist Rens van der Zalm, Hungarian piper Nikola Parov and American fiddler Bruce Molsky. Although an integral part of the finest Irish bands of our time, Andy continues along the road as a solo artist in the old style, a teller of stories and maker of music. Andy has released many solo CDs as well as those recorded with his bands.

Dutch artist, Rens van der Zalm is a musician of multiple talents...not only a skilled guitarist, but equally accomplished on the violin, mandolin, keyboards, accordion and whistle. In 1968 Rens and Andy crossed paths in eastern Europe where Andy was exploring traditional Balkan music. He and Rens became friends and vowed to get together again some time to play music. "Some time" proved to be more than twenty years later. They've been recording and traveling together since 1991. He serves as the anchorman for many well-established popular bands, and more recently he has become active in live theatre.

In 2001 Andy received the FIDDLER'S GREEN HALL OF FAME AWARD in Rostrevor, Co. Down, Northern Ireland, "Presented annually to person or group who has made a significant contribution to the cause of Irish music and culture."

Dick Gaughan says "Andy is one of the most creative and talented people it has ever been my privilege to work with. Great company, superb singer, genius of a musician, truly original songwriter and an inspiration to all of us- what more could anyone ask?"

"His forte, his genius is playing his mandolin, mandola and bouzouki. I have never heard such clarity of sound, such perfect and precise rhythmic variations or brilliant melodic figures from this family of instruments," San Francisco Examiner. Hot Press says" Any Irvine is Woody Guthrie's representative on earth."  Boston Globe says "Andy has been one of Ireland's most creative talents for over 20 years." 
"Andy Irvine is a tradition in himself," the Irish Press.

 For a sneak peak of the music you will hear at Little Lake Hill check out some of their tunes:

Andy and Rens TOGETHER here at Little Lake Hill is going to be one REALLY FINE SHOW---a very special treat for Mother's Day. Make reservations EARLY. Seats are $15 and must be held in advance by calling (919)787-6378 or email bett_padgett@mindspring.com.