embrace

Devised and Performed by Matt McGranaghan, Fiddle.
Accompanied by Denise Roper, Piano.

Matt McGranaghan invites his audience on a voyage of discovery, using his own compositions which reflect the many occasions and moments of life where music is most often pertinent and appreciated.

In his own words, ‘In my 30-plus years of learning, playing and studying music, I’ve had some unforgettable moments where I have been deeply affected by music. These cathartic moments have increased my awareness and deepened my understanding of the extraordinary power of music. I want to share that with people and that is what ‘embrace’ is all about.’

Matt McGranaghan was recognised from a young age as traditional fiddler of exceptional talent. His playing has since gone on to encompass many different genres and influences. He formed and led his own twenty four piece orchestra in 2004 and 2005, led a twenty piece jazz and swing band in 2006 and was musical director and leader of the Irish/Scottish music, song and dance show, Kintra, for four years. He has also toured and performed extensively with many Irish acts including Nathan Carter, Mary Black, Dolores Keane, Brendan Shine and Michael English to name but a few.

In 2020, he became spokesperson for the Music and Entertainment Association of Ireland and fought for the rights of workers in the sector throughout the 680 days of forced Covid 19 closure. He was directly involved in meetings with the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and relevant Ministers in securing vital, career saving grants and supports for workers in the Entertainments sector.

Denise Roper is an accomplished pianist from the Crossroads, Killygordon. An honours graduate of NUI Maynooth, she taught music in a secondary school for twelve years before pursuing a career focusing on performance and private education. Denise has been Musical Director for countless musicals and shows in County Donegal over the years.