One of Ireland’s greatest button accordionists, James Keane, will perform on Friday, January 19, at 9 p.m., at New York University’s Glucksman Ireland House, located at One Washington Mews (at Fifth Avenue), as part of the Blarney Star Concert Series. Featured also will be Padraig Ó Cearúill, NYU’s award-winning language instructor, who will present Irish language songs from his native County Donegal and beyond.
Admission is free to members of Ireland House and those with a valid NYU ID; for all others, $15. There are no reservations, but for further information call 212.998.3950.
Keane was one of the most celebrated young traditional musicians in Ireland in the 1960s, performing with singers Paul Brady, Dónal Lunny, and Mick Moloney, bridging the gap between the ballad groups inspired by the American folk music revival and the older Irish music scene. A New York City resident for many years, Keane is still feted when he returns to Ireland for a musical visit.