Cathal Hayden

	Cathal Hayden comes from Pomeroy in County Tyrone, an area steeped in traditional Irish music. From an early age Cathal learned and played music with his father and other musicians in the area. Cathal first played banjo winning All Ireland championships at all age levels. He then began to concentrate on the fiddle and within a few years became All Ireland champion. He recorded his first solo album "Handed Down" with well known guitarist Arty Mc Glynn about 12 years ago. This album featured the music that had been passed down to him and demonstrated his unique style of playing to the full. In 1991, Cathal was the catalyst for the formation of Four Men and a Dog, a group that has since gone on to establish themselves as one of the top Irish Traditional bands of all time. The group recorded four albums two of which were recorded at Levon Helm’s studio in Woodstock and feature members of ‘The Band’. Following a brief absence, Four Men and A Dog reformed in 2002 and released ‘Maybe Tonight’, yet another outstanding piece of work. Cathal recorded his second solo album during the Summer of 1999. His fiery, virtuoso fiddle style is apparent throughout and his banjo-playing skills can be found on many tracks also. Cathal is accompanied on this album by Arty McGlynn, Brian McGrath, Donal Murphy, Liam Bradley, Rod McVey and Seamus Begley. In 2001 Cathal recorded a CD ROM tutorial with MadForTrad.com. More info. Recognised as one of Ireland’s best fiddle players, he has recently been joined on the road by accordion maestro Mairtin O’Connor and Micheal O’Domhnaill on guitar.