The Harmonicas Ireland Workshop at the Howth Roots & Blues Festival was an exhilarating experience that captured the essence of communal music-making and harmonica mastery. Held against the scenic backdrop of Howth, the workshop blended the festival’s laid-back vibe with an immersive and interactive session led by Cathal Johnson, seasoned professional harmonica player and Hohner Service Technician.
Participants and all festival visitors enjoyed a live performance showcasing blues and country blues music on guitar and harmonica, including a demonstration of trad train harmonica blues. With a respectable turnout of people from just listeners to beginners to intermediate and high level players arrived to participate.
From the moment participants stepped in, there was an inviting atmosphere. Cathal Johnson from Harmonicas Ireland demonstrated a deep passion for the instrument and an infectious enthusiasm that immediately resonated with both novices and experienced players. His approach was great, ensuring everyone felt comfortable, regardless of their skill level. This was particularly impressive as the workshop attracted a diverse group, from complete beginners to those with years of experience. Participants had opportunity to discover how to achieve overblows with tricks that even beginners can master and some within 30 seconds of trying!!
The Howth Roots & Blues Festival was absolutely fantastic, with incredible blues bands and musicians playing across various venues throughout Howth. We at Harmonicas Ireland would like to extend a big thank you to Paul Byrne for having us, Jeanette for hosting, Sarge on sound, and the entire crew for making this such a memorable event. It’s definitely one for the calendar, and we’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year for another amazing weekend!
