225. Gerry Hanley: Trad Musician - Part 2
25 June 2026
About This Episode
In the concluding part of his conversation with The Ireland Podcast, Gerry Hanley reflects on the people and experiences that have shaped his musical journey. He shares stories of Sharon Shannon, Greg Cotter and the legendary London sessions of the 1970s, discusses why great musicians sound like themselves regardless of the instrument they play, and recalls the famous story of violin virtuoso Joshua Bell performing incognito as a busker in a Washington Metro station.
The episode also features Gerry's 1983 recording with Roudledum alongside tracks from his recent CD, bringing to a close a warm and thoughtful conversation about music, memory and community.
Roudledum - Traditional Irish Music And Song
Jigs: Thrush In The Bush / Rocking Chair / Fahy's In C
Gerry Hanley - In The Middle Of It
Hornpipes: Slopes Of Benbulben / The Swan On The Lake / The Showman's Fancy
Gerry Hanley
Gerry Hanley is a Galway accordion player with a lifelong involvement in traditional Irish music. A respected performer and educator, he has spent decades preserving and promoting Ireland's musical heritage while continuing to play and record.