Tommy Sands with Moya and Fionán Sands will Bring the Sounds of Northern Ireland to the Library of Congress

The American Folklife Center and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland will present a concert with Tommy Sands with Moya and Fionán Sands, of County Down, Northern Ireland as the opening event of a series of three exciting events that are celebrating and documenting the culture and musical traditions of Northern Ireland. As a follow-up to a successful season of cooperative events in 2007, Rediscover Northern Ireland 2008 brings three of the most respected artists to the Library of Congress for a series of free, noon-time public events.

An internationally celebrated singer, songwriter, storyteller, and social activist, Tommy Sands was raised with traditional music in County Down, Northern Ireland. As a member of the influential Sands Family folk ensemble, he introduced international audiences to Irish music during the 1960s and laid the groundwork for its current worldwide popularity.

Author of such classic songs as “There Were Roses,” “Daughters and Sons,” and “Come on Home to the County Down,” he has seen his works translated into many languages and recorded by such artists as Joan Baez, Kathy Mattea, and Dolores Keane. Over the decades, his artistic integrity, engaging style, and commitment to peace and dialog between peoples of different backgrounds have contributed to his worldwide renown.

October 9, 2008, 12:00 noon, FREE
Coolidge Auditorium, Jefferson Building, Library of Congress

For more information on this event or other Northern Ireland programs at the Library, visit the website or call the American Folklife Center at 202-707-5510.