Jazz percussionist Conor Guilfoyle is to tour Ireland with The Piece with The Drums, a contemporary dance jazz show with dance company CoisCéim Dance Theatre. We asked Conor the BIG questions . . .
The Piece with the Drums, directed by David Bolger, is at The Everyman in Cork, on 23 October, Draíocht in Blanchardstown on 26 October, An Grianán in Letterkenny on 7 November, Town Hall Theatre in Galway on 12 November, The Civic Theatre in Tallaght on 15 and 16 November, and Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire on 20 November.
Tickets are available here.
Described as "pulsating with theatrical magic," the production combines live music performances by Conor with dance routines directed by choreographer David Bolger.
Speaking about the show, Conor says, "One of the genuine joys of being a drummer is seeing how the audience physically reacts to the rhythms I produce, whether it's the joyful movement of bodies dancing or a foot tapping along.
"But to witness how the all-star cast of professional dancers interpret, respond, sync and groove to the beats is a truly mesmerising experience. We cannot wait to take this show on the road".
The forthcoming tour is part of a special programme of events in celebration of CoisCéim Dance Theatre's 30th anniversary year.
Established in January 1995, the company has played a pivotal role in fostering the expansion of contemporary dance as an artform in Ireland, receiving numerous accolades for their national and international touring shows.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I’ve been playing drums for nearly 50 years, playing mainly jazz but have also played in many styles, including Cuban music which is a passion of mine. I’ve also been heavily involved in music education, starting the Jazz program in Newpark Music Centre and now lecture in DCU. I’m the author of four internationally published drum books.
How would you describe your music?
Most of the music I play is strongly rhythmical, from Jazz to Cuban music, though I have been involved and enjoyed more avant-garde projects.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Jazz musicians from 40s 50s and 60s, such as Miles Davis and John Coltrane as well as drummers such as Max Roach and Elvin Jones.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Thin Lizzy on Blackrock Park in 1974. I had just started playing drums and was blown away. Brian Downey the drummer was a big inspiration in my teenage years.
What was the first record you ever bought?
David Bowie’s Starman single, possibly 1973. I still love David Bowie.
What’s your favourite song right now?
I’m listening to Gerry Mulligan, the great West Coast baritone sax player. I have an Octet that specialises in his music and others of the 1950s and he’s never far from my turntable.
Favourite lyric of all time?
Most of the music I listen to is instrumental, but the words that accompany the music on the track Fables of Faubus from Charles Mingus' 1959 classic album Ah Hum still resonates today.
Where can people find your music?
My website.
Alan Corr
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