Harpist and concertina player Aisling Lyons has released her new single, Sunbeam. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
The original contemporary harp composition is a poignant tribute to her late friend Sarah and showcases Aisling's emotive musical storytelling.
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Holder of eight All-Ireland titles, in 2018 she graduated with First Class Honours in Irish Music from the University of Limerick and later earned a Professional Master of Education in 2021.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
Home for me is the lovely town of Ennistymon. I love cats. Time well spent for me involves reading a brilliant book, painting or creating something..
How would you describe your music?
I play Irish traditional music (harp and concertina). I write tunes for both instruments but I'm experimenting playing and composing in a more contemporary or explorative way these days. My new single Sunbeam includes what I like to call 'a subdued, introvert's harp rave (!)' towards the end with all sounds created by the harp.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My Mam and Dad, both folk singers. I would say Irish harpers (Gráinne Hambly, Michael Rooney, Fionnuala Rooney, Laoise Kelly), Mary MacNamara, Martin Hayes, Michael McGoldrick, Caitriona McKay, my own brother Sean Lyons inspires me all the time in his compositions and songwriting, looking to composers of other genres also; Brian Eno, Joh Hopkins . . . the list goes on.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I've been brought to the pub with my Dad since I was just a bundle. Any of his gigs would probably have been my first. I remember going to see Kathleen Loughnane (Galway harper and a big inspiration to me) when I was very small and Noel Hill in Ennis. My first stadium gig was Michael Bublé (also one of my all-time favourite artists!)
What was the first record you ever bought?
I remember this as clear as day down in Newmarket on Fergus Supervalu - Britney Spears, Toxic!
What's your favourite song right now?
Currently loving Rufous Nightjar’s Willows and Red Robin, Twin Headed Wolf, Susan O'Neill’s Drive, Tyrone fiddler Sinead McKenna's album Faoi Lán Ceoil and Sarah Joroz Columbus & 89th.
Favourite lyric of all time?
For Free by Joni Mitchell. "Across the street he stood, And he played real good, On his clarinet for free, Now me, I play for fortunes, And those velvet curtain calls, I've got a black limousine, And two gentlemen, Escorting me to the halls, And I play if you have the money;".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I'm going to pick one of these that evokes intense emotion in me every time; Mozart's Piano Concerto No.23 L.488 II. Adagio, My Mind by Yebba, or Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill 27-minute track from Live in Seattle.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My Instagram @aislinglyonsmusic has all the information, website and Facebook, too! All the streaming platforms for listening.
Alan Corr
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