The Annapolis Maritime Museum will present Seamus Kennedy in concert in the Buchanan Bay Room of the historic McNasby Oyster Company building on Sunday, April 10, beginning at 7 p.m. Known locally as a highly entertaining performer of Irish traditional music, Seamus has also recorded an album of sea music, referencing sailing traditions old and new: “Sailing Ships and Sailing Men.”
Seamus has released eleven CDs of both contemporary and traditional material, including Christmas songs and a children’s album. The Washington Area Music Association has awarded him a WAMMIE for “Best Irish/Celtic Male Vocalist” every year since 1993. His versatility makes him a headliner at Celtic festivals such as Hunter Mountain (NY); Celtic Classic (PA); Longs Peak Scottish Irish Festival, (CO) and at Sacramento (CA) Highland Games. Seamus is often invited to perform for various organizations, including the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Fraternal Order of Police, Firemen, military groups and the Bar Association. His performances always include something for everybody.
Seamus’ trademark is his ongoing interaction with his audiences. From the moment he steps on stage, he starts talking to them — and encourages them to talk back! He is quick with a quip and likes nothing better than to discover someone in the audience who is similarly inclined. Fast-paced humor is very much a part of what Seamus does, whether he’s telling a series of rapid-fire jokes or launching into a lyrical parody.
In fact, Seamus seems to be having such a grand time and he makes it all look so effortless that it is easy not to notice what a superb musician he truly is. He will segue seamlessly from an Irish ballad about a dying town to a rollicking reel and then move into American music, equally at home with folk, pop, country or traditional. Accompanying himself on guitar or bodhran, his musicianship is much in evidence as he moves through such a vast range of styles.
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is located at 723 Second Street in Annapolis. The show begins at 7 p.m. and the cover charge is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. From Annapolis City Dock, take Compromise Street across the Spa Creek Bridge, turn left onto Severn Avenue, right onto Second Street, and follow signs to nearby parking at Horn Point Harbor Marina. For further information, call 410-295-0104 or visit www.amaritime.org.