Music Competition

Pat Roche was an enthusiastic supporter of Irish music!  Even though Roche wasn’t a musician himself, he thought it was important to involve young people not only in Irish dance, but Irish music also. With the help of an Irish flute player, Roche organized a flute band called the Harp and Shamrock Flute Band.  In 1940 Roche had 5 dance locations in Chicago, 2 music locations and a special drumming class in yet another location.

Calling all musicians!  

Competitors must play two tunes, of two different rhythms from the following choices: Jig (double, single, slip), Reel, Slide, Polka, Hornpipe, March, Set Dance, Air (slow or lively).

This competition is for melody players only (keyboard and guitar players must include melody in their playing). 

The following are acceptable instruments: fiddle, flute, pennywhistle, uillean pipes, accordion, concertina, melody piano (bring keyboard), tenor banjo, mandolin, harp and miscellaneous category (hammered dulcimer, cello, etc.).

Competition will be judged on command of instrument and skill in Irish playing style.