Padraic O'Reilly

 

Padraic O'Reilly is, among other things, Musical Director and Chairman of the Corofin Traditional Festival. Although still in his mid twenties, he has quickly developed a reputation as one of Ireland's leading traditional piano players, both as a soloist and accompanist. He was a founding member of the group Turas in 1996, and following their self titled album they were invited to the Washington Irish Folk Festival in 1997. He has also recorded with the American-based accordion player James Keane, as well as Garry Shannon, Feenish (PJ and Marcus Hernon), Cyril O'Donoghue and Tim Collins.

His 2001 debut solo album "Down the Ivory Stairs" has been critically acclaimed, and was listed as one of the Top Ten Albums of 2001 by Aine Hensey on RTE's website. He has made numerous TV and radio appearances, the highlight being his ground-breaking piano quartet with Mícheál Ó'Súilleabháin, Geraldine Cotter and Caoimhín Vallely on the 2002 Rose of Tralee broadcast, which was beamed live via satellite to millions of viewers all over the world. He is leader of the Ennis Céilí Band, current All-Ireland 3-in-a-row champions, with whom he has recently cut a CD. He has also toured extensively with the Four Courts Céilí Band, and has also played with the Kilfenora and Tulla Céilí Bands. He has both classical and traditional training on the piano.

As well as touring America, he has also toured much of Europe, and this time last year, he was packing his bags for a St. Patrick's Day visit to Shanghai, where he performed for the Irish Consulate General among others.