This episode pays tribute to legendary American drummer Keith Copeland (1946–2015), whose collaboration with Tommy Halferty and Ronan Guilfoyle marked one of the most memorable chapters in Irish jazz.
The trio first connected in 1991 at Newpark Music School, where Keith would later teach at summer schools. His return visits soon led to the suggestion that the three play some gigs together—sparking a musical chemistry that couldn’t be ignored. Energized by the experience, Keith approached SteepleChase Records about documenting their work as a trio.
What followed was a fruitful run of recordings, including Irish Connection (1996), Round Trip (1997), Live in Limerick (1999), and Breathing the Air (2004). Each album showcases a trio in full flight—deeply intuitive, rhythmically charged, and unmistakably connected.
Copeland, widely regarded as jazz royalty, brought both gravitas and generosity to the trio. His work with Tommy and Ronan remains a high point in all their careers.
- Director/Producer: Peter Moc
- Music:
- My Shining Hour (Arlen/Mercer) from Live in Limerick, 1999 by Keith Copeland Trio
- Prism (Abercrombie) from Round Trip, 1997 by Keith Copeland Trio
- Syeeda’s Song Flute (J. Coltrane) from The Irish Connection, 1996 by Keith Copeland Trio
- The Funky Chicken (Pee Wee Ellis) from The Irish Connection, 1996 by Keith Copeland Trio
- Falling in love with love (Rodgers/Hart) from The Irish Connection, 1996 by Keith Copeland
Interviewees:
Tommy Halferty, Ronan Guilfoyle
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.
