2019: Bodhar

Damien has been recognised as an accomplished bodhrán player for over 30 years. In that time he has worked with people like Donal Lunny, Elvis Costello, Riverdance, The Ó Riada Retrospective and The Notions. He has also toured extensively and has recorded with various traditional and rock ensembles.

Damien has a primary degree in History and Politics from NUIG and has an M. Litt. in History. This has led him towards an exploration of the possibilities of combining historic and political commentary with rhythm. Bodhar, a solo piece for bodhrán consisting of 3 movements, is his latest experimental composition and is the product of that exploration. The word bodhrán is derived from the Irish word bodhar, meaning deaf or deafening. Therefore, the bodhrán in this composition becomes the voice of social consciousness exploring the key issues of the day.