DÚCHAS | CELTIC GUITAR
Dúchas translates from Irish as a plethora of things; 'heritage, nature, tradition, instinct, wildness'. The aim of 'Dúchas' is to develop a programme of traditional yet contemporary music arranged for solo guitar that engages today’s audience. The traditional element is in sourcing Celtic melodies - as well as the stories that go hand-in-hand with them - and finding a home for them on the guitar. The contemporary element is found in the expression of these melodies with digital technology, modern harmony and guitar techniques.
Drawing inspiration from folklore and nature, the Dúchas project is a virtuosic repertoire of Celtic music that taps into the heart of traditional Irish culture. In the past, Chris has been invited to perform Dúchas at the Florence Academy of Art, Irish Embassy in Tanzania and the Irish Cultural Centre London, as well as having sold out shows in prestigious venues such as St. Patricks Cathedral and the Whale Theatre in his hometown of Dublin.
From ancient melodies reimagined to original tunes of his own composition, Chris aims to use his diverse musical background to fuse classical guitar technique, contemporary harmony and traditional melodies to create something new and relevant that, at the same time, builds on and pays homage to the past.
SÍ BHEAG SÍ MHÓR | MUSIC VIDEO
Filmed in an ancient ruin at Glendasan Valley in Co. Wicklow, often called 'the Garden of Ireland', Chris performs a Celtic guitar rendition of the traditional Irish piece "Sí Bheag Sí Mhór" for his Dúchas project. The piece is inspired by a site where two battling giants were, by a wizard, turned into two hills; a small hill and a big hill; Sí Bheag Sí Mhór. From these hills two faerie mounds grew and the valley was peaceful forever more.
PRAISE FOR DÚCHAS
“A very moving performance that brought Ireland and Irish talent across the oceans. I was struck by Chris’ guitar work and virtuosity. As well as sounding fantastic, Chris radiated an energy and enthusiasm that lifted the performance into something extraordinary” - Mags Gaynor, Deputy Head, Irish Embassy in Tanzania
“Exquisite guitar playing” - Carl Corcoran, Music Network Ireland
“Brilliantly reimagining a repertoire of contemporary, Celtic and traditional music using digital technology and improvisation and bringing a modern twist to ancient melodies” - The Dublin Gazette
“Haunting captivating and completely mesmerising” - Eileen Carey , Events Director St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin
“To say we were mesmerised by the intricacies of Chris’ finger picking would not be enough. He is outstanding!” - Jim Kirby, Director of Irish Heritage London