James Cullinan

James was born in Derula, Kilnamona, Co. Clare. He attended Toonagh N.S where renowned teacher Frank Custy taught him to play the fiddle at the early age of 9. At the same time Frank taught many others to play who are well known musicians today. Together they were members of the Toonagh Céilí Band playing for many céilís and Fleadh Cheoil competitions throughout the country. He later became a member of the Dísirt Tola Band formed in 1981 by Gearóid Ó hAllmhurain bringing together musicians from Clare and Dublin. They recorded an album in 1983 followed by a tour of Ireland, England and the USA. He has also toured with Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.

James grew into an accomplished fiddle player at a very young age and has had numerous TV and radio performances over the years. He has also taken part in various music festivals and given countless workshops. James released a highly acclaimed duet album called ‘Happy to Meet’ with his good friend and well-known flute player, the late great PJ Crotty and his wife Carol in 2002. He has also featured on many other albums down through the years.

What makes James a stand out musician is his modesty amongst other players… always wishing to have no spotlight on him … yet his music beams from both the fiddle and his radiant smile as he plays. The sweetness and lyrical quality of his playing is well documented. Influences included the greats of Clare; Junior Crehan, Tony Linnane. Joe Ryan and Tommy Peoples also were major influences on his style of playing.

James is a magnet of music… people want to follow him where he goes and join in on his sessions, or simply listen to the magical sounds from his fiddle and bow. James has always had time, always made time for all accomplished and aspiring musicians. He remains at the epi-centre of the West Clare fiddle style and above all else, he has humility and temerity and a deep heart and soul for the music and for his love of playing Irish traditional music. He is a beacon of light in Irish fiddle music.

Féile Oriel could not be more elated to have James Cullinan as our Munster representative for “The Elders of Fiddling” 2023.