Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

Ireland

Birth

:

July 12, 1961 in Caherlistrane, County Galway, Ireland

 

Seán Keane is a renowned Irish musician who has made a significant contribution to the world of traditional Irish music. Born on October 12, 1961, in County Galway, Ireland, Keane grew up in a family of musicians. His father, Matt Keane, was a well-known fiddle player, and his mother, Bridie Gallagher, was a singer. Keane's siblings also played music, and he learned to play the fiddle at a young age. Keane's musical career began in the 1970s when he joined his family's band, The Keane Family. The band played traditional Irish music and toured extensively throughout Ireland and the UK. Keane's fiddle playing quickly gained recognition, and he became known for his unique style and virtuosity. In 1985, Keane joined the band Arcady, which was formed by Irish musician Johnny "Ringo" McDonagh. The band played a mix of traditional Irish music and contemporary folk music and gained a following in Ireland and the UK. Keane's fiddle playing was a highlight of the band's performances, and he also contributed vocals and guitar. In 1991, Keane released his first solo album, "All Heart, No Roses." The album featured a mix of traditional Irish music and original compositions, and showcased Keane's fiddle playing and singing. The album was well-received and established Keane as a solo artist. Keane continued to release solo albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including "Seán Keane" (1993), "Turn a Phrase" (1996), "No Stranger" (2000), and "The Man That I Am" (2008). His albums featured a mix of traditional Irish music, contemporary folk music, and original compositions, and showcased his versatility as a musician. In addition to his solo work, Keane has collaborated with a number of other musicians throughout his career. He has performed with Irish singer Dolores Keane, Scottish singer Eddi Reader, and American singer Nanci Griffith, among others. He has also played with the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra. Keane's live performances are a highlight of his career. He has toured extensively throughout Ireland, the UK, Europe, and the US, and has played at major festivals and venues. He has also performed for Irish President Mary McAleese and US President Bill Clinton. Keane's contributions to traditional Irish music have been recognized with a number of awards and honors. In 1998, he was awarded the National Entertainment Award for Traditional Music. In 2006, he was awarded the Gradam Ceoil TG4, which is the highest honor in traditional Irish music. He was also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Irish Post Music Awards. Keane continues to be an active musician and performer, and his contributions to traditional Irish music have made him a beloved figure in the music world. His virtuosic fiddle playing, soulful singing, and innovative compositions have inspired countless musicians and fans around the world.

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