At the Racket to play in Strokestown 

Strokestown Park House will host a special night of live traditional music on Saturday, January 10th, when renowned group At the Racket perform as part of their January tour with a strong Roscommon connection at the heart of the band.

Fiddle player and founding member John Carty, who is based in Boyle, says he is particularly looking forward to the Strokestown concert. “It’s always a pleasure to play in Roscommon, and especially so in a venue like Strokestown Park House. There’s a great appreciation for music in the county, and it’s great to play near home. We’re really looking forward to bringing the At the Racket sound to Strokestown in January - it’s the perfect way to brighten up the middle of winter.” 

At the Racket are best known for their distinctive and uplifting sound, led by the unusual and exhilarating pairing of saxophone and banjo, a combination inspired by the Irish dance bands of the 1920s. The band’s music is rhythmic, joyful and highly infectious, blending driving tunes, songs and rich instrumental textures that never fail to engage live audiences.

Formed in 1996, At the Racket quickly built a reputation as one of the most enjoyable and original acts on the traditional music scene, touring extensively throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. Their music draws on the spirit of the early Irish bands who played the American vaudeville circuit, while remaining fresh, playful and full of energy.

The current line-up includes John Carty (fiddle, banjo, flute), Brian McGrath (piano, mandolin, banjo), Michael McCague (guitar, bouzouki) and Seamus O’Donnell (flute, saxophone, vocals). Their live shows are renowned for warmth, humour and musical variety, making them equally suited to dancing or attentive listening.

The Strokestown Park House concert promises to be a winter highlight for Roscommon music lovers and a welcome lift during the post-Christmas season.

Tickets cost €25 and are available via the Strokestown Park House website.