Joseph Armstrong’s musical talents dazzle in Donegal

HAVING started his music school in Glasgow, Joseph Armstrong has brought his talent, skill and passion for Irish music to Donegal and gathered with 60 of his students to celebrate the first Joseph Armstrong School of Music Christmas Concert (above).

Those humble beginnings may have been focused on giving life to Irish musical culture in Scotland, but such are the talents of Joseph—and given his very strong family connections to Donegal—few who know him will be surprised that he has now brought his musical gifts to the people of Donegal and had an impressive impact there.

Hosted in Halla Naomh Bríde in Lettermacaward, the concert provided an opportunity for the budding young musicians to show their talents, and also highlighted a fascinating cultural exchange.

Having benefited from those who came to Scotland and fought to keep their cultural traditions alive on foreign soil, Joseph has now returned to Ireland and brought the vibrant Irish musical culture which has flowered in Scotland to communities in Ireland with a true thirst for traditional Irish music.

He was joined for the concert by his mother Cathleen Armstrong, children’s author and Irish community stalwart, who is making her own significant cultural contribution in both Donegal and Scotland, and Hughie Boyle, father of KT Boyle from Cherish The Ladies, who accompanied on piano.