BRIAN PATTON

Brian is perhaps the most talented traditional fiddle player to emerge from Ireland for many years. Born in Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal, Brian learned his craft in the local pubs and sessions before moving to England in his early teens. Brian became somewhat of a local hero during the 1960’s and 70’s performing in some of the great bands of the era such as The Gaels (including Sean Cannon of the Dubliners), the Munstermen and the Ian Campbell Folk Group. He was also a founder member of  the Birmingham based Irish band, Drowsy Maggie

Brian toured extensively in Europe with singer songwriter, Pat Cooksey ( the Sick note) before forming a partnership with a popular Birmingham based artist, Dave Philips. A short period with local band Hand on Heart was followed by his meeting in 1990 with local singer songwriter, Pete Kelly, and the subsequent  birth of the popular duo Patton & Kelly. The duo is still working regularly and has been joined by Mark Kavanagh and Simon Hayward to form the band The Wild Irish which is fast gaining a reputation as the premier Irish band in the Midlands.

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PETE KELLY

Pete’s career began with the writing of four children's songs which were recorded to raise funds for the special school at which he was working at the time. Needing help to record the songs, he was introduced to a number of local musicians with whom he completed the project. As a result of this, he was invited to join a local country band “ LEGEND” IN 1983.

At the same time, Pete was beginning to find his feet as a singer songwriter in the Birmingham area, and a few nervous floor spots followed. As time passed Pete was joined by electric guitarist Rob Fellows in forming the duo, “KELLY & CO. An album of Pete’s songs followed, (Barefoot on the Shore) and was received well by the folk going public. As Rob followed his destiny with Legend, Pete formed a partnership with Irish fiddle player, Brian Patton and the rest is history.

Recently, Pete has also begun to pursue a solo career and will be releasing a new cd of original songs called “Reservation Road” during the Summer of 2002.( Pete Kelly singer/ songwriter)

MARK KAVANAGH

Dublin’s Mark Kavanagh joined Patton & Kelly to form The Wild Irish (trio) in 1999. The duo was playing in Birmingham when a young man asked if he could accompany us for a few numbers on a borrowed Bodhran. After bringing the whole room to it’s feet and totally demoralizing every other Bodhran player in the room , Mark was asked to join and help form The Wild Irish (trio).

Twice British champion on his favourite instrument, Mark’s speed and skill is simply awe inspiring and he will frequently bring the house down with a stunning solo display of Bodhran playing which leaves everyone open mouthed. In addition to his drumming, Mark also enhances the sound of the band with his skills on the Irish whistle.

SIMON HAYWARD

The Wild Irish.................NEW CD AVAILABLE SUMMER 2002. Please call for a sample

For an up to date giglist for Pete Kelly, Patton and Kelly or Wild Irish, or to have your name put on our e-mailing list please email Pete Kelly on kelly@wildirish.freeserve.co.uk

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