Photo by Denise Foley www.irishphiladelphia.com
John Byrne grew up listening to and playing the most traditional of old Irish songs in his homeland hometown of Dublin, Ireland, but also fell under the influence of American and British rock and pop. After moving to Philadelphia, Byrne pursued a teaching career while continuing to chase his musical aspirations. Revisiting his Celtic roots after exploring other options, the early knowledge of playing the traditional tunes blossomed into the working John Byrne Band. Now, a few acclaimed records into a burgeoning career balancing the old tunes played on traditional instruments with enough contemporary coloring to make the songs anew, Byrne, along with band mates Maura Dwyer (violin/cello), Rob Schaffer (guitar/banjo) and Andy Keenan (multi-instrumentalist) travel across the country occasionally, while playing regularly in Philly and on the East Coast. Catching John passing thisaway, friend and fan Nat Radwine booked the band into his home for a special house concert. For more info on the house concert details establish contact at 217-652-2321 or [email protected].


John Byrne Band
Saturday, Sept. 6, 7pm
Radvino House Concert

Tom Irwin

Tom Irwin, a sixth-generation Sangamon County resident, has played his songs and music for nearly 40 years in the central Illinois area with occasional forays across the country. He's contributed to Illinois Times since 2000 by writing Now Playing, a weekly music column, as well as features stories and other articles...

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