SINGER-SONGWRITER John Spillane has just been unveiled as headline act for the Mountshannon Arts Festival this summer.
With the welcome return of in-person events, the hugely talented Corkonian, is set to captivate audiences from well beyond East Clare, when he performs at St Caimin’s Church.
Rooted in people, place and story, John’s music transports the listener, and his live performances have thrilled audiences around the world.
The award-winning musician, songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller, poet and dreamer will perform within the hallowed historical walls of 18th Century Church of Ireland on Saturday, June 4.
Mountshannon Arts Festival Chairperson, Mel White, said the committee is delighted to have secured such a talented and popular performer to headline this year’s event.
“John’s music is a reflection of Ireland today, and we are honoured to have him performing in Mounshannon,” she said.
“And not only that, John is also hosting a song writing workshop where he will help participants lose whatever inhibitions and fears they may have about writing songs while also sharing tricks of the trade on verse, chorus, repetition, and rhyme.”
As an artist John’s music appeals to listeners across many genres and generations. His vocal style has a unique, almost sean-nós tone and his performances shimmer with the magic realism that permeate many of his songs as he effortlessly flits between beautiful poetry tinged with melancholy to roguish irreverent humour.
John has the ability to charm, memorise and entertain in equal measure. With an extensive back catalogue, John’s songs have been covered by Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Seán Keane and many others.
Dublin superstar Damien Dempsey has described his work as “the heart and soul of our island”.
Twelve albums later, John is set to release his first independent album in 20 years. Entitled 100 Snow White Horses, the album is eagerly anticipated by John’s dedicated fans and newer listeners alike.
For his Mountshannon concert, John will be supported by rising star Julie Martin, recent winner of Clare FM’s Local Hero Talent Search.
From Ballyvaughan, Julie is a musician and songwriter with a voice and presence that belies her age. From her earliest days, Julie has been immersed in music of all genres inspiring her to write and play her own songs.
Tickets for the concert and workshop are available on Mountshannonarts.ie.