The Sligo Maid by Carmel Gunning

By Carmel Gunning

From CD insert:
"The whistle and flute music of Carmel Gunning draws on a rich tapestry of culture and tradition from her iconic homeland in Geevagh in Sought Sligo, a region steeped in native culture, a region of such musical luminaries as Morrison, Michael Coleman, Paddy Killoran and Josie McDermott and the legendary McDonagh Brothers. Against such a background her introduction to music took place at an early age and was nurtured by her parents who recognized her rare talents.

Fuelled by a milieu that houses an endless repertoire of tunes she set out not only to emulate her illustrious predecessors in the music field but to exceed their standards if that were possible. Her ornamentation is uncanny, her variations unrivalled, as also her felling for a true rendition of a traditional tune.

Carmel's electric portfolio extends to the composition of some gorgeous dance tunes and slow airs, many of which are embodied in this her latest CD and which she as a music teacher passes on to her pupils thus ensuring that the tradition will survive.

In this, her third release of Irish Traditional Music, she leaves no doubt that she has matured and mellowed into a well-respected performer with an individualistic style. Her combination of old and new tunes on this album is well-judged and she takes us on a fascinating journey through the nexus of Irish music at its best.

The accompaniments of Charlie Lennon, piano and Junior Davey, bodhrŕn are judiciously used and tactfully executed and the guest artistes, Olivia McTernan and Ciaran Mulderrig contribute in no small way to making this album the definitive article."