New folk group with players across South Down sets up
Rambling Folk is a new folk group in South Down. It’s three players, Patrick Cassidy, Caroline McGivern and Wayne Denner have come together over the past few months pooling their musical talents with a collection of songs and tunes spanning Irish trad, folk and world and modern pieces in their wide repertoire.
Patrick Cassidy from Downpatrick said: “We like to play feel good music, mainly Irish folk tunes and traditional pieces but we break out into world music too. I’ve been involved in music since I was a child and concentrate in the group on playing the whistle, flute, guitar and singing.
“I have travelled all round Ireland to sessions, gigs, and concerts and I’ve met a number of brilliant musicians along the way and learned a lot and made a lot of friends.
“So I thought it would be great to create a group with local talent. There seems to be room out there in the music world. Initially we are a three-piece group but could expand up to five members. Currently we are practising regularly between Downpatrick and the Burren where both Wayne and Caroline live. They are already accomplished musicians and singers.
“We have had a couple of gigs in Warrenpoint so far and they went down great which was re-assuring. So we’ve practised playing together a lot more together and we are having fun and building up more songs and tunes. “
Caroline McGivern said: “I play the guitar, harmonica and sing. I sing all sorts of music, from folk to more modern pieces such as Kingfisher numbers.
“It’s a big task learning so many songs but we are getting there. Our rehearsals last a few hours a couple of times a week.
“We try and share out the singing between the three of us.”
Warrenpoint man Wayne Denner plays guitar, banjo and the mandolin and also sings. He said: “We’ve been adding instruments for a couple of months now and have a fair range. I enjoy playing with Patrick and Caroline and we are definitely blending well together as a folk group.
“I’m looking forward to getting a few bookings which will push us on further as a group. We are looking for gigs in pubs and clubs, private events and Sunday sessions.
“We will be playing all the staples such as ‘Whiskey in the Jar’, ‘Galway Girl’ and ‘Irish Rover’, the Travelling Soldier’ and ‘Wagon Wheel’ and many more. There’s an endless number of great songs and tunes to learn. It’s great fun and people love a good sing-along.”
Patrick Cassidy added: “We’ll be playing in the Lobster Pot on St Patrick’s Day, and if anyone is interested in booking us for an event, just get in touch through the website at:
or go to our Facebook page: Ramblin Folk
