Irish singer-songwriter Jennifer McMahon is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of her highly anticipated EP, Willow. Slated for an August 30th, 2024 release, this five-track collection is more than just an album—it's a testament to McMahon's evolution as an artist, blending her deep-rooted influences in soul music with her signature lyrical storytelling. To celebrate the release, McMahon will embark on an intimate Irish tour, kicking off with a special launch concert at The Bello Bar in Dublin.

A Glimpse into Willow

Willow is a rich tapestry of sound and emotion, recorded across two iconic locations: Sound Emporium Studios in Nashville and The Barn of Music in Dublin. This follow-up album leans heavily into McMahon's love for old-school soul, with lush, warm keys and organs played by Boston-native Clifford Bond and a crisp drum backdrop provided by Colorado’s Dev Malloy. The basslines, both electric and upright, come alive under the fingers of Nashville session player Zachariah Witcher, while Dubliner Darren Giles adds a tasteful touch of electric guitar.

Read more: Jennifer McMahon's Willow EP: A Soulful Journey and Upcoming Irish Tour

Date: August 10th
Venue: The Cellar of the Workman's Club, Dublin
Featuring: Luisa Annibali & The Brazilian Music Journey

A Night to Celebrate Jazz and Brazilian Music

Join us on August 10th for a captivating evening at The Workman's Cellar, where the intimate and acoustically rich space will transform into a vibrant hub of music and dance. This unique event, part of the Irish Women in Jazz Live Podcast & Concert Series, promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring the incredible talents of Luisa Annibali and her ensemble, The Brazilian Music Journey.

Read more: Experience the Vibrant Rhythms of Brazil at The Workman's Cellar!

Music aficionados and jazz enthusiasts, get ready for an unparalleled auditory experience with the release of "Louis Stewart with Jim Hall - THE DUBLIN CONCERT." This newly unearthed live recording from December 26, 1982, is a unique collaboration between two of the most revered guitarists in jazz history. Available on September 6, 2024, this album promises to be a treasured addition to any jazz collection.

Recorded at Dublin’s Maccabi Hall, "THE DUBLIN CONCERT" captures an intimate and electrifying performance by Louis Stewart and Jim Hall. This concert was an unexpected delight for Dublin jazz fans, hastily arranged when it was discovered that Hall was vacationing in Ireland. The serendipitous event brought together Louis Stewart, Ireland’s first world-class jazz musician, and Jim Hall, a modern jazz guitar pioneer. Despite their differing styles, the two guitarists delivered a spellbinding performance, showcasing their deep mutual respect and masterful interplay.

Read more: Rediscovered Gem: "Louis Stewart with Jim Hall - THE DUBLIN CONCERT"

Acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter Edel Meade announces the release of her poignant new single, ‘For Sinéad,’ to mark the anniversary of O’Connor’s untimely passing.

A Tribute to an Icon

‘For Sinéad’ is a lyrical homage to the iconic Sinéad O’Connor, whose indomitable spirit and powerful voice left an indelible mark on the world. The song captures the essence of O’Connor’s courage, strength, and enduring influence in Ireland and across the globe. This heartfelt tribute marks Meade's first release since her celebrated album ‘Brigids and Patricias’ in 2021.

Read more: Edel Meade Pays Tribute to Sinéad O’Connor with New Single ‘For Sinéad’

Newpark Music Academy, a cherished institution renowned for nurturing musical talent and fostering a vibrant community, has recently announced its closure. This unexpected decision, made by the board of directors, has left many in shock and sadness.

A Legacy of Excellence

For 45 years, Newpark Music Academy has been a cornerstone of our community, providing high-quality music education to students of all ages. With over 600 students and 42 dedicated staff members, the academy has seen numerous achievements, from student performances in prestigious venues to alumni succeeding in professional music careers. Its contributions to the local cultural landscape are immeasurable, making its closure all the more poignant.

Reasons for Closure

On 22nd May, staff were informed that the academy would close on 1st June, a shocking and sudden announcement for everyone involved. The board of directors cited financial issues as the primary reason for the closure. However, this explanation came as a surprise, as no prior financial difficulties had been communicated.

Read more: Newpark Music Academy Closure: A Loss for the Irish Music Community

I am incredibly happy to announce that the Arts Council of Ireland has awarded funding to Jazz Ireland for 2024. After overcoming significant administrative hurdles, the funding has finally arrived, allowing us to resume operations. I will be working part-time on Jazz Ireland for the remainder of the year, ensuring that most of the services we offered before can be maintained.

It's been over a year since my last newsletter or social media post, when I had to announce the closure of Jazz Ireland. It was a difficult decision, but a necessary one at the time. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who reached out with messages of support and appreciation in the weeks following that announcement. While I couldn't reply to everyone individually during such an overwhelming time, I am deeply grateful for the response and for all the hard work that went into making Jazz Ireland what it became.

Special thanks go to Minding Creative Minds for assisting throughout the last year. 

Read more: Jazz Ireland Returns

Hello everyone, it is with a heavy heart that I must announce the closure of Jazz Ireland.

Jazz Ireland was a project I created with the primary focus of supporting the Irish jazz scene and helping it grow. For seven years, I worked tirelessly on the project without any funding, determined to make a difference. I am proud of what I accomplished, I got to work with some incredible people whom are now lifelong friends and I’m grateful for the opportunities it provided.

But unfortunately, that time has come to an end.

Getting funded was always the goal, but as a disabled person I can’t get funding without severe penalties. When I started this project, I didn’t know how bad the situation was. I have tried for years to change the rules, to make it easier for people like me to access the arts, but to no avail. Despite my efforts to speak with government officials, arts organisations, disability organisations and advocate for change, nothing has been done to rectify this situation. And it looks like nothing will.

Read more: Jazz Ireland Statement of Closure