The Barleyshakes

Alan & Kristin Kelly are two founding members of the well known Irish powerhouse band the Barleyshakes. Together they bring you upbeat sounds of Ireland on sweet sensuous fiddle, and spirited guitar. Recipients of Queensland Music Award for World music and notably Alan has recorded as a bodhran soloist on the Lord of the Rings soundtrack.

Son and heir, young Rory Kelly joins them on bodhran completing the trio and making it a family affair. Rory, at 19, is a compelling performer and multi-instrumentalist who just loves playing Irish music and has performed on stages all around the world since the age of 5.

Having performed at concert halls, clubs, and festivals in over 25 countries, the Shakes take you on a journey from Ireland’s happier pre-famine days, and follow with songs of emigration, desperation, resilience, and struggle. Spirits will be lifted from some haunting compositions by humorous tales and sprightly jigs and reels. The modern Irish movement also features in their live repertoire featuring todays dance grooves while honouring the tradition of Irish music.

Also, Scottish, Canadian and Eastern European compositions feature, alongside original and traditional Irish tunes and songs. The Barleyshakes, through their lifelong passion and skill, will make you laugh, cry, sing and dance and are touring New Zealand in January and February 2023