Galway Sessions Harmonica Festival: A Celebration of Music, Culture, and Community
On a clement Wednesday night, June 13th, the Galway Sessions Harmonica Festival launched with an electric atmosphere at The Crane Bar. Mick Crehan, his wife Maeve, and their dedicated staff created a memorable opening night, setting the tone for a week of incredible performances and workshops. Over the past 12 years, Mick and Maeve have curated the Galway Sessions festival, each year focusing on unique musical themes—from composers to piping, dancing, and now harmonicas. A renowned musician himself, Mick’s passion for traditional Irish dance music (ITDM) and his encyclopedic knowledge shine through in his work. His fondness for the harmonica made this year’s theme a natural choice.
The Opening Night Buzz
The Crane Bar came alive as Mick introduced me and the stellar lineup of harmonica players to the stage, saying:
“The harmonica ‘Messiah’ is here to spread the gospel! Cathal not only plays the harmonica but repairs and modifies them. He’s the driving force behind this festival, with his mission to spread harmonica love far and wide. Let’s give a big welcome to Cathal and friends!”
While I played a part in convincing Mick to host this festival, it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of local harmonica enthusiasts like Ernie Deacy, Frank Boyle, Paul Moran, and others. Their passion for this little instrument ensured its success. Performances ranged from traditional tunes with Tony O’Connell to blues and jazz. The Sunday session featured standout contributions from players like Sean Maloney and David Larkin, with each performance showcasing the harmonica’s versatility and charm.
Workshops and Sessions
Throughout the week, workshops ran on Saturday and Sunday, with contributions from myself, Mick Kinsella and Ben Hewlett, the chairman of the National Harmonica League. Each session offered unique insights into different styles and techniques, from Irish slow airs to blues. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and Ben even introduced the Harp Wah by Roly Platt, demonstrating its integration into Irish music—a highlight for many attendees.
Mick Crehan complimented Ben’s performance during the Sunday evening session I hosted at The Crane. The room was filled with harmonica enthusiasts—diatonic, chromatic, and tremolo players—sharing stories and techniques. It was a testament to the harmonica’s ability to bring people together.
Workshops and Sessions
Throughout the week, workshops ran on Saturday and Sunday, with contributions from myself, Mick Kinsella, Maciek Zaworonek, and Ben Hewlett, the chairman of the National Harmonica League. Each session offered unique insights into different styles and techniques, from Irish slow airs to blues. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and Ben even introduced the Harp Wah by Roly Platt, demonstrating its integration into Irish music—a highlight for many attendees.
Mick Crehan complimented Ben’s performance during the Sunday evening session I hosted at The Crane. The room was filled with harmonica enthusiasts—diatonic, chromatic, and tremolo players—sharing stories and techniques. It was a testament to the harmonica’s ability to bring people together.
Cultural and Personal Reflections
The festival’s Galway setting added a magical layer to the experience. From the vibrant streets filled with musicians and dancers to the natural beauty of the Corrib River, the atmosphere was unforgettable. During a brief break, I watched salmon leap upriver, followed by an otter—a rare and wonderful sight right in the heart of the city. Even one of our attendees, Trevor Yeo, witnessed a fisherman landing a salmon, making the experience uniquely Galway.
While the festival was a working holiday for me, I managed to enjoy its spirit alongside visitors like Ben Hewlett. Although our fishing trip yielded no catch, it was a fitting metaphor for the unpredictable magic of the harmonica—sometimes elusive, always rewarding.
Looking Ahead: Future Festivals
The Galway Sessions Harmonica Festival was more than a celebration of music—it was a gathering of community, culture, and storytelling. The response was overwhelming, with attendees coming from across Ireland and beyond to share their passion for the harmonica.
Plans are already underway for future events, with hopes to build on this year’s success. Whether through workshops, performances, or informal sessions, the harmonica’s voice will continue to resonate in Galway and beyond.
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming festivals and projects, including the Free Reed Gathering this September in Cloughjordan and Galway. Check out Harmonicas Ireland for details and follow us on social media for the latest news.
