I had being thinking of the life during the covid pandemic. No gigs, no going out to town. Plenty of walks in the park and waking some mornings, asking what will I do today. When I was asked to write a tune for the Faoiseamh project, twas good. Something positive to mark this time and a challenge to myself. I had thought of writing an ugly tune . When I hummed it’s irritating melody and rhythm, I left it on the road I was walking.

The first two slower parts I had in my blue book for a while, so as not to forget them. I didn’t forget them and thought this was a good opportunity to put them to use. After playing the second slow part it suggested following with another more enthusiastic piece, hence the jig. The last part came as I wanted something to finish and also so RTÉ would think I put in the extra effort.

The name Tearmann came as it sometimes felt like being on retreat during the pandemic.