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As we begin our 5th season of presenting outstanding traditional music, our next several concerts return us to the Irish roots of our house concert series. What better way to start than with Solas members Eamon McElholm and Johnny B.Connolly!? While that renowned Irish-American super group takes a hiatus, Eamon and Johnny are touring as a duo. Playing side-by-side for the past three years with extensive world-wide performances, the two friends have forged a rare musical connection whether firing on reels and jigs or blending in breathtaking accompaniment to Eamon’s brilliant singing.

Eamon McElholm‘s songs will have the opportunity to be front and center. The County Tyrone artist composes masterful works in both the Irish and American roots traditions and his songs have been covered by numerous artists, including Solas and his previous band, Stockton’s Wing. His guitar playing is first rate and along with Johnny there will be plenty of room for tunes, as well. Eamon has performed all over the world including China, Japan, Brazil, Slovenia, throughout Europe, and extensively in America. His original music has been recorded by many artists and he has written music for TV documentaries and worked as a session musician on a number of film soundtracks. He has produced albums for others and frequently appears on other artists’ albums.

Eamon McElholm is very much a distinguished artist…in addition to having a host of excellent singles as a solo artist over the years (he) has performed with many highly regarded musicians and bands. The talented artist, who excels on a wide range of instruments, has continued to impress in the field. –Tyrone Life

Johnny B. Connolly is a Dublin-born accordionist whose exquisite playing has graced artists from Kevin Burke to Martin Hayes to Nuala Kennedy, and many more, including two previous SLO House Concerts. Now living in Portland, Oregon, he shines on traditional Irish tunes as well as sparkling French musettes and even the occasional old-timey American tune. Johnny has toured extensively nationally and internationally, performing at festivals, concerts, and schools with an impressive array of outstanding Irish traditional musicians. Most recently, Johnny toured as a member of internationally acclaimed band Solas and is featured on their new CD All These Years.

Johnny Connolly’s Bridgetown is the most exciting solo debut album from an Irish artist in years…a must-have CD for all true lovers of Irish box playing. – The Irish Herald

House Concert Details

SLO House Concerts are by invitation and reservation only. Please click here to request an invitation and indicate how many seats you would like to reserve. We will then send you an email with directions and other helpful information.

7:00pm show: Doors open at 6:30pm. Concert starts at 7:00pm.

Suggested donation: $20. ALL of the money goes directly to the performers.