In front of a large crowd of supporters, “Strings & Things,” a 5 piece contemporary Irish folk band whose music branches from traditional Irish to folk hits, last night won ‘Tipperary Battle of the Bands’. As overall winners the group walked away with the prize of a 3-day professional recording opportunity at the Temple Lane Recording Studios and a ‘Support Slot’ performance in The Academy, Dublin.
Runner up; ‘The Drive’ and ‘Minus One’ also won prizes which included ‘Instrument Vouchers’.
The MC for the evening was Michelle Doherty (Model, DJ and TV3 Xposé Presenter), while the Judging Panel on the night were Dee Reddy (TXFM Presenter), Paul Boland (Partner/Director of CWB) and Moley Ó Súilleabháin (Singer/Musician and Composer).
Michael Lowry T.D. with ‘Strings & Things’ – Supporting the Arts In Tipperary.
Down through the years Tipperary stands renowned for producing talented singers, actors and musicians. Most recently Irish Eurovision Singer, Songwriter and Pianist Molly Sterling; Una Healy of The Saturdays; Musician, actor, comedian, writer and overall entertainer Pat Shortt; Thurles born and internationally known arranger, conductor, composer and pianist Frank MacNamara and Shane McGowan of the Pogues. These performers, not just household names locally, are today recognised for their wide range of talents globally.
In the past and regrettably no longer with us, let us not forget the late Clonmel born Tenor, Frank Patterson and the late Carrick-on-Suir Irish singer and musician Bobby Clancy, latter best known for his membership of The Clancy Brothers, both of whose names immediately come to mind when we speak of true Tipperary talent.
Speaking after the event promoter Michael Lowry T.D. stated; “Throughout our county of Tipperary every year, appearing on stage are many award winning dramatic and musical societies, amongst them hundreds of successful and well established performers.
The “Tippperary Battle of the Bands” event which was hosted in Hayes Hotel, Thurles, last night was all about promoting and showcasing the musical talent as yet undiscovered in Tipperary.
The participating chosen finalists which featured “Haven”, “Small Fish”, “Minus One”, ” The Drive” and “Strings & Things” certainly displayed incredible musical talents.”
Expect to hear more on all of these bands, above named, into the future.
Michael – Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to you and all your family