For the final playlist of the year we’ve chosen a selection from Tony MacMahon’s and Tom Davis’ collections, once again showcasing the variety, depth and virtuosity of musicians and singers.

The Tulla and Kilfenora Ceili bands are still thriving and in demand today. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, their rivalry produced exciting occasions at the Fleadh Ceoils and the two bands are in mighty form here from 1959 with an enthusiastic, appreciative audience.

In 1973, Tom was on hand to capture Joe Burke (1939-2021) in great form playing Crowleys reels at a street session with his fellow Galwayman Martin Byrnes (1927-1994) on the fiddle. A year later, Tom was at the fleadh concert to record Paddy Ryan displaying his virtuoso fiddle playing.

John Kelly, (1912-1989), originally from West Clare, lived in Capel Street Dublin from the 1940s till his passing in 1989. John’s home was a mecca for musicians living in or passing through Dublin. This recording captures John introducing a tune he learnt from his old friend Denis Murphy and its followed by a distinctive march, a joint composition of John himself and his friend Sean O Riada.

Brendan McGlinchy (1940-2020), originally from Armagh, spent most of his life in London and gained a reputation as an outstanding fiddle player and composer. After a period of leaving music behind, he took up the fiddle again, travelled back to play and teach at the Willie Clancy Summer School and the Fleadhs where he renewed old friendships. Finally, we hear the distinctive plaintiff voices of Rita (1922-2009)and Sarah (1918-2010) Keane, singing one of the classic ballads Lord Donegal.

Nollaig Shona and Ath Bhliain faoi Mhaise. Padraic