It's long past time that I put finger to keyboard and say something about the Frank Harte festival. It was outstanding. It's worth the trip to Ireland just by itself. If you just want to listen to some good singing, you will get a lot out of it, but it's even better if you go prepared to sing yourself.

North American catters will likely be surprised (and hopefully delighted, as I was) by the high standard of singing at the open sessions. That doesn't mean elitist. The crowd is very welcoming and supportive, but the people who opened their mouths to sing actually knew their songs, and sang them well. I have been to too many song circles on this side of the pond where people stuck their noses in their songsheets or Rise up Singing, and still apparently didn't know the words. I also liked the format where the MC called on a few people to sing, and then left the floor open. The "everyone take a turn" way of organizing a sing has its place, but this was better.

I came away with several new songs that I intend to learn, and some great memories. My thanks and respect to all involved.

Edmund