IAHM WORKSHOPS: Fiddle (Gerry O’Connor) and Tenor Banjo (Kevin McElroy)

The Irish American Heritage Museum is delighted to present two master classes as part of IAHM's 2026 Irish Culture and Arts Workshop Series. IAHM is proud to have Gerry O'Connor offer a workshop in the Irish fiddle, and Kevin O'Connor offer a workshop/informance on the tenor banjo. Both have taught and performed throughout the United States and the EU.

Gerry O'Connor is one of Ireland's most sought-after traditional Irish fiddlers. Gerry is a teacher, historian, violin maker, recording artist, and performer from County Louth.

Kevin McElroy will bring a unique approach to his tenor banjo workshop, which will include an informance entitled “The Evolution and History of the Tenor Banjo from the 1800s to the Present,” which will present serval styles of tenor banjo playing in Irish music. The style and global influence of Albany’s own Michael Flanagan and the Flanagan Brothers will be discussed in this lecture. Participants need not play the tenor banjo; those who do are encouraged to bring their instruments of workshop instruction.

Following the workshops, participants are welcome to join Gerry and Kevin for a pre-concert meal at our sponsors, Common Roots Brewing Company.

PLEASE NOTE: At 7:00 PM, Gerry and Kevin will perform a concert at the Irish American Heritage Museum's Flanagan Theater. Concert tickets must be purchased separately, .

IAHM is grateful to sponsors of this event: The Flanagan Family, Metroland Now, Common Roots Brewing Company, ParkAlbany and the Flanagan family.

Show your ticket the day of the show at Common Roots Brewing Company and get the Common Roots’ special “IAHM Buy One / Get One” beverage deal!!!

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