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Paddy Joe Tighe is an accordion player, tin whistle player, lilter and singer who now lives in Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo. Earlier this year, Jackie Small & Brian Doyle from the Irish Traditional Music Archive (ITMA) had the great pleasure of travelling to meet Paddy Joe in his own home, and record an interview with him. Born in Arderry, Aghamore, Co. Mayo Paddy Joe was steeped in a family musical tradition as well as that of his locality. His mother Kate played the accordion and over the course of this interview, her influence is often acknowledged. His love of music and his generous spirit have led to many musical friendships among both the settled and traveller communities, including the legendary Pecker Dunne & Margaret Barry. His detailed reminiscenses are interspered with tunes on the accordion and tin whistle as well as songs, reflecting Paddy Joe’s rich & unique legacy of style & repertoire, and his thoughtful approach to the place of music in his life.
This is an edited extract from the full interview. It can be viewed in its entirety at our premises in 73 Merrion Square, Dublin. ITMA would like to sincerely thank Paddy Joe for his hospitality and generosity in allowing us to film this video and in giving permission to make it available online.
