about
“Chris Comhaill is a boundary-pushing guitarist and composer whose work blends Celtic tradition with classical finesse, global influences, and improvisational flair”
- Goderich Celtic Roots Festival
From a young age Dublin-born Chris Comhaill had eclectic taste in music and it is this eclecticism which has defined his musical career. As a solo artist and session musician (guitar & bass) he has played in some of the world’s premier venues performing in genres ranging from jazz and classical to pop, rock and Irish traditional. He has performed for crowds at festivals such as Glastonbury, Electric Picnic and Body & Soul and has had the honour of playing for An tUachtarán - the President of Ireland - Michael D. Higgins. He has shared the stage with acts such as The Script, Aslan, Anúna, George Ezra, David Keenan, Kurt Elling, Il Divo, Celine Byrne, Systir, Paul Byrom, KÍLA and Mundy.
Described by The Irish Times as “an exciting, fresh endeavour” his solo project Dúchas | Celtic Guitar has brought him to stages around the world—from the Irish Embassy in Tanzania to the Florence Academy of Art and the Irish Cultural Centre in London. His debut EP Fuinneog (2023) earned critical acclaim for its seamless fusion of Celtic, classical, and contemporary styles. With 150,000+ YouTube views on his repertoire of Celtic guitar arrangements, Chris continues to captivate audiences through his virtuosic playing and imaginative use of live looping and effects.
Chris studied music at UCD, BIMM and DCU and holds an Honours Degree and Masters Degree, as well as a performance Diploma (achieved with distinction) in Guitar Performance. He was DLR Musician-in-Residence for 2023 and the Tyrone Guthrie Composer-in-Residence 2024. Chris is grateful for his work to have been kindly supported by DLR Arts, the Arts Council of Ireland, Creative Ireland and Music Network Ireland.
Chris enjoys a schedule of regular performing, touring, teaching and producing along with devoting time to developing and sharing his music. He releases music under his own name and under the pseudonym Front Row Seats. Chris is also delighted to perform at weddings and events throughout the country and abroad. His fluency on both electric and acoustic guitar in a diverse range of styles and his abilities as an improviser has kept him in high demand as a session musician. His love of Celtic song, story, folklore and history shapes much of his creative practice. When you can't find Chris in the studio or rehearsal room then he is likely swimming at one of his favourite spots along the Dublin coastline.
Contact:
ChrisComhaill@gmail.com