People of the Wild Atlantic Way – 

Bean Dolan – Bantry, West Cork.

‘Music has chosen my life path, it was through music that I first came to Bantry and its why I stayed. There is a rich diverse musical tradition and heritage in the town and it ranges from classical to traditional music, to singer song writers and bands. The support for music and the arts can be seen in the many festivals that are staged each year, such as the West Cork Chamber Music Festival, The Literary Festival, The Masters of Tradition and Chief O’Neill Traditional Music Festivals.

But for me, living here all year round, its the more intimate sessions in the Winter that are special, when the locals come together around the fire for trad sessions, song circles and singing circles. All my friendships are made through music and the towns musical tradition facilitates those connections.’