The Gathering (update)

The BIB editor writes:

The First Annual Irish Old Time Appalachian Music Gathering, centring on the Roadside Tavern, Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare, is now nearly two weeks past, and I should have announced long ago what an enjoyable event it was. Fortunately, others have already done so: William Duddy gives it a five-star rating on the Gathering's Facebook, where you can also see over forty atmospheric photos taken during the weekend at the Tavern, the Burren Storehouse (venue for the Saturday evening concert and dance), and the Smokehouse and Burren Hostel (venues for workshops or jams). One of these photos is shown below.

As well as the star performers and instructors from the USA and visitors from abroad, a notable attender was Johnny Moynihan (just visible in one photo) - not just a legend of the folk scene here but a pioneer of playing American traditional music in Ireland. Congratulations and thanks to Andrew Lambert and Bob Denton; I'm looking forward to the next Gathering.

Update 2 Mar.: I've just learned from Andrew that Bob Denton was unable to take charge of the Saturday night after-concert session in the Tavern because of illness, and that since his return to the USA it has been diagnosed as hepatitis A. The BIB sends every good wish to Bob for a speedy recovery.

Typically, the BIB editor takes a back (but conspicuous) seat