I come from St. Johnston, a small rural village on the banks of the river Foyle in Co. Donegal, an area steeped in music and with a very rich musical history.. I began playing at a very early age, being taught at various times by my father Eddie, Joe Cassidy, Tony McGranaghan and Patsy Molloy.

I have been greatly influenced by these people and indeed heavily by my uncle Tommy Peoples. People from the surrounding area like George Peoples, Paddy Douglas, John Douglas, Kathleen McGinley, Barney Martin, John Martin, Barney McAuley and Canon Cunnea. The place was absolutely full of musicians, playing all manner of musical genres and almost everyone was capable of reading and writing music.

I began composing music at the age of 17 when my first two tunes were written: the reels “George Peoples” and “Ciaran’s reel” – sometimes called “Joe Cassidy” and “George Peoples” respectively – long story!

Many other tunes followed. I don’t know exactly how many but probably more than 100 of varying quality and appeal. I’ve been very lucky to have composed some good tunes. Indeed, l know exactly how lucky I am in this regard and I thank God for that gift.

Some of these tunes were written many years ago and some as young as a few weeks old. Most of them I’ve only ever played for close friends and family and a lot of them are difficult to play and/or accompany. However, I do enjoy playing them myself and having played many of them over the years with the expert accompaniment provided by my great friend Dermot Toland, that enjoyment has been greatly amplified.

To those encountering these tunes on the ITMA website I hope you find some tunes you like and I wish you much enjoyment in the playing of them.