Brian (banjo) Friel

Brian has been playing Irish Traditional Music since the age of 7 yrs old.Early influences would have been his Grandparents,and Brian learned a lot of his early music from his Grandfather who was a fine concertina player.He was also very much influenced by his Great Grandmother (ballyline)who loved Irish Music so much. His first instrument was of course the tin whistle which he played for many years before switching over to Banjo & Mandolin at the age of 13.Since then he has won two major All Ireland titles on the Banjo at the annual Fleadh Cheoil Eireann which is held every year for musicians.He has also won numerous awards on mandolin alike. His music has brought him all over the world touring Australia,U.S.A.,Japan, Signapore,Europe and Scandanavia.Brian has played with many fine groups and it was with know doubt he was chosen to play with The Furey Brothers,(whom he was brought up listening to)standing in for the great Davey Arthur for almost 1 year. Since then he has moved and lives in Sweden where he writes music and plays regular gigs with Guitarist/singer/songwriter Locky.Christy O..Leary Uileann Pipes/Low whistles/Vocals,(ex boys of the Lough & De Dannan),and with Bert Deivert (Bazooki/guitar).All four are involved in a great new Dance and Music show called Northern Lights.Brian is currently working on a solo Album and has just been endorsed by Deering Banjos.Keep tuned for more details!

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