The Covid Corner Sessions: Talented singer Daoiri Farrell impresses online
By Aideen O'Flaherty
Folk musician Daoirí Farrell has been wowing audiences with online performances over the past months as, like many other musicians, he’s had to change from in-person gigs to online shows.
The Crumlin man, who is a talented singer and bouzouki player, won two BBC2 Radio Folk Awards in 2017 and has performed all over the world.
Folk Musician Daoirí Farrell
His decision to pursue his passion for making folk music came about after he watched a Christy Moore performance on TV several years ago.
Daoirí has gone on to transfix audiences with enchanting performances of his own original material and covers of Irish folk music classics, like ‘The Foogy Dew’ and ‘The Parting Glass’, and he carries this through to his online performances.
Daoirí held the well-received ‘Covid Corner Sessions’ throughout the first lockdown, where he broadcast live performances over Facebook from his kitchen/living room.
Following on from a ticketed online gig he held at the end of November, the past pupil of Drimnagh Castle Secondary School told The Echo about what it’s been like to switch to performing online, and how ‘The Covid Corner Sessions’ gave him a focus during the first lockdown.
What was it like for you as a musician, when the first lockdown came into effect?
I suppose I had a lot of different feelings about it. I was sad about losing out on a lot of gigs and tours, but I was glad that I was at home. I was lucky to be at home with my family, I suppose.
Folk Musician Daoirí Farrell
You developed a series called ‘The Covid Corner Sessions’, in which you clocked up 25 free performances. Why was it important for you to have that outlet?
I love playing music, and I hope it helped to entertain some of my fans who were also stuck indoors. It helped me in a way, having something to prepare for each week. It kept me practicing and singing. I just love performing, so it was great.
How has the switch from in-person to virtual gigs been for you?
It was challenging at first. We had to re-learn how to use the various social media outlets, but we soon caught on to it. It was also different not having a live audience clapping and cheering, but it was nice to know that they were there in the safety of their own homes. It was enjoyable after a while.
You’ve also been holding bouzouki and singing lessons online; have you found that more people have been taking up hobbies and focusing more on creativity in the recent months of lockdown?
I think so, yes. After all, it’s the perfect year to take up a new hobby or indeed a new instrument.
You recently held an online gig, what was that like for you and what feedback did you get?
It was a pre-recorded gig that I filmed with the help of my dad and I edited it myself. It was a massive learning curve for me, as I had never done anything like that ever before.
And I have to say, I really enjoyed putting it together. I got some nice feedback, and am currently shooting another one in the hope that it will be ready for the Christmas period.
Looking ahead, what plans are on the horizon for you?
I am hoping to record a new album, and I would really love to get back on the road again soon – provided it’s safe to do so.
For further information on Daoirí Farrell, visit www.daoiri.com or follow him on Facebook.
Daoirí’s three albums, and tracks from his lockdown sessions, are available for purchase at daoirifarrell1.bandcamp.com
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