Fleadh Q&A: Seán Keane

Galway man Séan Keane, one of Ireland's finest voices, is lined up for a double concert with Dervish in the Cathedral of Christ the King during the fleadh this year. We were in touch with Seán ahead of this year’s fleadh and this what he had to say.

What are your earliest and favourite memories of the fleadh?

The earliest memory I have is singing in my first county fleadh in Tuam, and winning the All-Ireland Fleadh in Dublin that same year was, of course, wonderful but my overriding memory is the excitement of going off exploring and playing with friends afterwards. There was so much adventure to be had as a child at the fleadh with crowds of people, the likes of which I had never seen before. I’ve been on that adventure ever since.

When was your last time in Mullingar?

At the fleadh last year I made new friends and I went to see them at Christmas to sing a few songs for Santa Clause as he flew into Murtagh’s Organic Farm, Ballynacargy, where they held a Christmas market and grotto for the local community.

What are your interests outside of music?

I love being out in nature and every year I try to have a few things growing in the garden. I have a few beehives and when there’s time, I like to work with my hands, whether it’s a polytunnel or flute made from conduit, there’s satisfaction in it. I also started learning the guitar during lockdown so I’m tipping away at that right now and really enjoying it.

What music did you listen to growing up that has led to your career?

I was brought to a Makem and Clancy concert as a very small child and it went straight to the heart. I thought it was magical. Johnny McEvoy is another great singer that had a huge influence on me; I remember him being played on the radio and seeing him on the television.

Aside from performing, what are you most looking forward to at the event this year?

To witness the excitement in the faces of the children. It brings me back to the excitement I felt as a child at the fleadh.