Folk figures for Johnstons Slane festival workshop

As part of the Johnstons Folk Music Festival, which is taking place in Slane from 25th to 27th May, two of the foremost figures on Irish folk music will host a festival workshop on the subject on Saturday afternoon, 27th May, in the village, The afternoon events take place at Slane Credit Union from 1pm to 4pm where Irish music, song and dance will be the order of the day. Moloney and Sands will talk on what has happened to Irish music in the 40 years since the Johnstons broke up. The discussion should bring some pretty unique perspectives on the history of the last half century of Irish music from the point of view of performers rather than academics. They will also be accompanied by Tyrone man Declan Forde, himself a monologue specialist, which will add greatly to the enjoyment of the day. After the talk, Moloney will play a few tunes on the tenor banjo, joining in with local musicians who will also be playing on the festival afternoon. This is a free event and everyone is welcome to attend and be part of the festival. The festival kicks off on Friday evening, 25th May in Boyle's of Slane with acclaimed folk singer, Niamh Parsons in concert. Following the Saturday afternoon events in the village, the festival moves to the TLT Drogheda on Saturday evening where the legendary Sands family from County Down take to the stage at 8pm. This will be the first concert of their upcoming Irish tour having just completed a 15 night sell-out concert tour in Germany. The festival closes on Sunday 27th May in the festival concert hall in Slane at 8pm featuring Elizabeth, Rebecca and Sarah Jane Johnston and friends. Tickets for all events can be purchased at the Hub office, Main Street, Slane on (041) 982 4000.