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Tommy Halferty, A Part of the Continuum Documentary Series 2025
This 11-part Documentary Series from Director / Producer Peter Moc will explore Tommy Halferty’s musical career through in-depth interviews, performance footage, and conversations with musicians who have shared the stage with him. Each episode will provide a unique perspective on his work, from his early influences to his most recent projects.

Directed and produced by guitarist and filmmaker Peter Moc, this documentary dives into the musical life and contributions of Tommy Halferty, tracing his journey from his early years to his most influential projects and albums. As one of the most significant figures in Irish jazz, Halferty’s work as an educator, composer, and performer has left an indelible mark on the genre.

A Career That Shaped Irish Jazz

Born in Derry, Northern Ireland, Tommy Halferty has been a driving force in Irish jazz since the late 1970s. His formative years included performances with fusion group Jump and the flute, double bass, and guitar trio Nunn, blending elements of jazz, classical, and folk music.

Tommy Halferty has been a defining figure in Irish jazz for decades, known for his distinctive style and deep musical expression. He quickly became a distinctive voice on the Irish jazz scene, forming influential ensembles, collaborating internationally, and inspiring students through his teaching at Newpark Music Centre & DCU.

With a career spanning decades, Tommy Halferty has played a pivotal role in shaping Ireland’s jazz landscape. He has released and contributed to over 17 albums and collaborated with internationally acclaimed artists such as John Abercrombie, Keith Copeland, Lee Konitz, George Mraz, Martial Solal, Kenny Wheeler, and Norma Winstone. His dedication to performance and education continues to inspire generations of musicians.

"He’s absolutely an international world-class player, and to have a guy of that calibre, week on week, producing music on the scene for over 40 years, is an incredible achievement and an incredibly important factor in the evolution of jazz on this island."
– Ronan Guilfoyle

A Cinematic Tribute to an Irish Jazz Icon

Filmed at Camden Recording Studios and Hellfire Studio, the documentary series offers an intimate look at Halferty’s journey through interviews, archival footage, and never-before-seen recordings. Director Peter Moc, an accomplished guitarist and educator, conceived the project as a tribute to Halferty’s lifelong contribution to jazz performance and education.

Moc, whose career spans jazz, blues, rock, and contemporary classical music, ventured into videography during the pandemic. His deep appreciation for Irish musicians led him to embark on this project, capturing not only Halferty’s musicianship but also his philosophy and enduring influence on Irish jazz.

“Tommy’s story is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and resilience of an artist who has shaped Irish jazz for decades,” said Moc. “This documentary aims to celebrate his legacy and ensure that his contributions are recognized for generations to come.

Episode 05 – Halferty / Lavergne Trio 1985 and Ogham – Tommy Halferty, A Part of the Continuum Documentary Series 2025

Details
Written by: Red Keane
Category: A Part of the Continuum

This episode explores the origins of one of Tommy Halferty’s most enduring collaborations—the Halferty/Lavergne Trio. Tommy recalls the serendipitous meeting with Jean-Philippe and Christophe Lavergne in the mid-1980s, when the three musicians played together on the very night they met. That session sparked a musical connection that has lasted over four decades.

Tommy reflects on the early influences that shaped the trio’s unique sound and how their shared vision evolved into a lasting creative partnership. Over the years, they have performed extensively across Europe and released several albums together, including Ogham Dalkey Song (2011), Blue Impressions (2012), and Spiorad Ama (2023).

To this day, Tommy continues to return to France to play with the Lavergnes—proof of the deep musical bond they forged from that first unforgettable night.

  • Director/Producer: Peter Moc
  • Music:
    • Blue Impressions from Blue Impressions, 2009 by Halferty/Lavergne Trio
    • Encore-Moi from Blue Impressions, 2009 by Halferty/Lavergne Trio
    • To Follow from Spiorad Ama, 2022 by Halferty/Lavergne Trio
    • Au Marche from Spiorad Ama, 2022 by Halferty/Lavergne Trio
    • Fire & Rain (James Taylor) from Dalkey Songs, 2011 (OGHAM)

Interviewees:

Tommy Halferty

Dedications:

Tommy Halferty would like to dedicate this project to his parents Patrick and Rose, also his brothers and sisters Patsy, Jim, Charlie, Rose, Sally, Nelly and Bridgie.

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A Part of the Continuum Episodes