Tony brings Celtic sounds to a wider audience in Selkirk

Selkirk's String Jam Club is pleased to be welcoming to the stage Tony McManus '“ recognised throughout the world as Celtic Music's leading guitarist '“ on February 13.

From early childhood Tony’s twin obsessions of traditional music and acoustic guitar came together, producing a startlingly original approach to this ancient art. In Tony’s hands the complex ornamentation normally associated with fiddles and pipes are transferred to guitar in a way that preserves the integrity and emotional impact of the music.

Tony’s recording career began with his eponymous debut album in 1996, followed by Pourquoi Quebec in 1999, resulting in worldwide recognition. However, it was the release of ‘Ceol More’ (2002) that elevated Tony’s stature to a new level. Critics hailed the focussed, spell-binding nature of the music, from the plaintive Jewish hymn ‘Shalom Aleichem’ to the ingenious arrangement of ‘Goodbye Pork Pie Hat.’ Already nominated as Musician of the Year by both the BBC Folk Awards and The Scottish Traditional Music awards, ‘Ceol More’ hit the Critic’s Album of the year list in Acoustic Guitar magazine and named ‘Live Ireland Awards’ Album of the Year.

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Tony’s work has come to represent Celtic music in the guitar world, but he loves to bring his music to audiences of all tastes, making regular appearances at guitar specific events, such as the Chet Atkins Festival and the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.

In addition to his live performances, he is an enthusiastic collaborator and has worked with a host of great singers and musicians, too numerous to list here, as well as contributing to over 60 albums by various artists.

His latest album ‘Mysterious Boundaries’ is his most ambitious to date, and has received rave reviews, including one fromTommy Emmanuel who wrote: “This music is beyond beautiful, it’s…..PERFECT!”.

Doors open 7.30pm. Tickets £14, from The County Hotel, Selkirk, or by phone on 01750 721233. Card bookings incur a 50p transaction fee.