Established in 1992, the Ward Irish Music Archives houses the largest public collection of Irish music in America. It is named after John J. Ward Jr., father of Irish Fest founder Ed Ward. The archive currently consists of more than 40,000 Irish recordings and pieces of music memorabilia ranging from rare 78 rpm's, LP's and sheet music to song books, instruments, and concert memorabilia. Many of the archives items are extremely difficult to find today.
This 3-day conference will be the first of its kind in North America.
The Session will focus on Irish and Irish American music and entertainment. The Session will combine papers and panels on Irish traditional and popular music with video screenings and presentations from the Ward Irish Music Archives.
Live music will be integral to this event... so bring your instruments or voice and let's SESSION.
Explore the Dunn Family Collection microsite, which contains audio from the Francis O'Neill cylinders, historic recordings of Irish traditional music made c. 1904. Also browse manuscripts, photos, and other items from the collection!