North Tipp's Keelan to launch debut album

Major milestone for performer, composer and tutor

North Tipperary musician, Keelan McGrath, will officially launch his debut album, The Reel Road, on May 22 in The Kenyon, Nenagh, marking a major milestone in the career of the performer, composer and tutor. Doors are open at 8pm.

The launch event will feature Simon Crehan and Gearóid McNamara, who also provide accompaniment on the album. Following the Nenagh launch, further nationwide events are planned. The recording is already available on Bandcamp.com and has reached audiences across Ireland, the UK, France, Italy, the United States, and Australia.

A central feature of The Reel Road is McGrath’s own compositions, including The Missing Church of Congor, The Hills of Ballyscanlon, Bunny the Hitman, The Burrow and Finnoe Cross. The album also includes compositions from Paddy O’Brien, Seán Ryan, and other respected musicians.

McGrath, from Bellgrove near Borrisokane, comes from an area long associated with Irish traditional music and has strong links to the renowned session culture of North Tipperary.

From a young age, he became a familiar figure in local sessions, particularly at the Derg Inn in Terryglass. The McGrath family is well-known locally for its involvement in traditional music, with parents Regina and Brendan strongly supporting his musical journey. His siblings, Caitlín, Jack and Aaron, are also active within the tradition.

A long-standing member of Ballycommon CCÉ, McGrath is now one of the branch’s principal tutors, reflecting his commitment to teaching younger generations.

His musical development was shaped under the guidance of respected button accordion teacher Ned Kelly, who also features on the album.

McGrath has earned numerous Fleadh Cheoil All-Ireland titles, including Senior Button Accordion Champion in 2022. In 2018, he became the youngest-ever winner of the prestigious Bonn Óir Seán Ó Riada award.

The Reel Road connects North Tipperary’s traditional music scene with audiences around the world. The launch promises a lively evening of music and celebration, with CDs available on the night and everyone warmly invited to attend.