A friend just gave me a CD copy of a tape he made at the 1993 Willie Clancy flute & whistle concert. The last flute player on there is a fellow named Leon Agnew; among other things he did a beautiful version of “Lark on the Strand.” Anyway, I was especially taken with his playing, BUT … I’ve never heard of him (though that’s hardly a surprise; I’m so clueless).
I’m wondering if anyone knows anything about him? Any other recordings? I’ll try to do a more thorough web search in a bit, but just thought someone here might be able to point me in a good direction.
Thanks!
cat.
Edited to correct stupid tune title misteeak (although they’re both great jigs!).
He’s been recommended to me for a “Wooden Flute Obsession” recording, but no one has managed to provide me with contact info. Let me know if anyone puts you in touch.
Leon’s a great player, I think originally from Belfast, and last I heard, I think he was living in Limerick, but that was a few years ago. I’m not aware of him having any commercial recordings. I only met him the once, at the Willie Clancy week, and I think it must have been around the time you mention. I may have recordings of him from other Willie Clancy week concerts, but I think I only ever saw him at 1 or 2 of them. I’ll have a trawl through the tapes, and see if I can find anything, but it wouldn’t be a lot. Can’t help beyond that, I’m afraid.
You know, Kenny, that’s a darn good point. DUH! I meant to cross-post but couldn’t figure out if there was some technically nifty way to do it, and then wandered off to something work-related.
Then again, perhaps it’s as advanced as copying and pasting? Sheesh. What a moron I can be!
But in the interim … I Googled him on Friday and he shows up on a couple of recordings with other people – a Pat O’Connor CD, as well as one by Barbara Callan w/ Lynn Saoirse. But it looks like mostly he does the occasional Clancy turn (1998 was listed), hits a session in Co. Down every now and then of a Wednesday, and otherwise remains busy in biotech (if it’s the same fellow).
(Wow, Google is scary.)
(But I bet he’d be interesting to have a pint with!)
Anyway, thanks a million for the info, not to mention the kind offer. But no need to wear yourself out on a major fishing & mp3ing expedition (unless, of course, you REALLY want to )… I can just go hunt down one of those CDs.
(Of course, with my luck he probably plays on one track and it’s some sort of sensitive rendition of atmospheric long notes waaaaaay back in the mix but ya never know.)
There was something about his tone and style I liked on the Clancy tape. (Or maybe it was just that he wrapped up the concert after about 20 whistle tunes so a flute was a bit of a relief!).
Anyway, thanks again. I really appreciate the help!
)… I can just go hunt down one of those CDs.
but ya never know.)