Brian Conway

Brian Conway from New York state is roundly regarded as a leading exponent of the highly ornamented Sligo fiddling style made famous by the late Michael Coleman. Brian won the junior Fleadh Cheoil title in 1973 and 1974. He later won the senior title in 1986. His early studies were with his dad, Tyrone born Jim and later, with the much respected Limerick born Martin Mulvihill. Following on from that Brian studied with  Martin Wynne who taught him the skills and secrets of the distinct County Sligo fiddling style. Brian later met and was mentored by the great Andy McGann of New York, who was, in turn a former pupil of the great Michael Coleman.

Brian has been a true gatekeeper of the Irish fiddling tradition as a teacher, tutor and mentor to generations of young aspiring American born traditional Irish fiddlers.

It is an absolute honour to have Brian represent USA as the inaugural “Elder of Fiddling” for Féile Oriel 2023.