Caoimhín Ó Fearghail comes from An Rinn in the west Waterford Gaeltacht. He started to learn the tin-whistle at the age of eight, taking lessons from Bobby Gardiner. He quickly progressed to the uilleann pipes, under the tutelage of David Power, who has been a big influence on him. Others influences include Séamus Ennis, Willie Clancy, Tommy Reck and Patsy Touhey.
He is also self-taught on flute and guitar, inspired by such diverse flute players as Matt Molloy, Mike Rafferty and Tom Doorley, and also influenced by the many great musicians and singers from his home area. He has featured on a number of albums in the last few years playing various instruments, including Lá ag Ól Uisce, with his brother Seán and Tomás Ó Gealbháin. He has performed frequently at home and abroad, solo and also with groups like Danú and Caladh Nua.
He was the 2012 recipient of the TG4 Young Musician of the Year award (Gradam Ceoil TG4).
Paddy Tutty completed his first fiddle at the age of 17, as part of his Leaving Certificate woodwork project. While his classmates were making more traditional items, such as rocking-chairs and fruit bowls, it was obvious to Paddy that he had the potential to go on to pursue the craft of violin making.
Graduating with top marks, his woodwork teacher advised him that he had a natural talent in carving and in his opinion, Paddy would have a future in fiddle making if he were to go down that road. Over the next several years, Paddy refined his skills and knowledge to a very high standard. Being a professional fiddle player gives Paddy an advantage over many luthiers, as he knows exactly what he wants from the instrument.
Join Caoimhín and Paddy as they launch their new album, ‘Flute and Fiddle’, in the intimate surrounding of Matt Molloy’s Yard Bar. Doors open at 8pm and there will be no cover charge. Here is what John Carty had to say about the new album from these two fine musicians:
...''How welcome it is to be asked to endorse such a quality fiddle and flute album as this from two Waterford musicians who can hold their own with any historical flute and fiddle combination. Attractive, effortless and well chosen pieces make this recording a welcome companion to the collection of any follower of quality music. I was sent five or six tracks and found myself demanding more. Congrats Paddy and Caoimhin on such a fresh respectful approach to our traditional music''...
John Carty, July 2018