Hi

Just a quick note to let you know how the festival went. It was a great sucess, with visitors from Holland, France and Germany, plus many great local musicians taking part.

The free, community festival, saw music sessions at Bernard Harringtons bar From Tuesday Night untill Thursday night. Friday night had a CD Launch from John Corteen of his new album, 'The House on the Hill' Followed by an open music session. Saturday had an Open Mic session, followed, by a superb Magic show, from Steve Price of Action entertainments (Cork) with another open music session following.

Sunday opened with a fabulous Barbeque provided by our host Bernard Harrington, followed by a truly brilliant blues set from visiting musicians Henk Vosse and Leon Brook. Some of our musicians even chose to brave the elements and play outside for a while, not bad for March!

The festival was wound down in the traditional fashon, with the 'survivors session' Finishing at around 7.30pm Sunday . Our dutch friends then returned and played on untill 11.00pm.

The whole event was very well supported by the local community and visitors, a Friendy, inclusive atmosphere was commented upon by many. All styles of music where welcomed and enjoyed by all. Irish Traditional, Folk, Blues, Jazz etc. Accompanied and unaccompanied singing in Irish, English and Dutch. We even had several demonstrations of Belly Dancing From 'Niza Queen of the Arabian Dessert', and a story telling session from Steve Roche and John Burke (Kanturk)

Thanks to all who took part or came along to enjoy the craic. Especially Bernard Harrington, our host and his excellent friendly and efficient Staff.

Starting to organise for next Year already.If you are interested in getting involved, let us know, no paid gigs, but lots of fun, good music and good company.

All the best

John & Marie Corteen
FREE SPIRIT