A new feature film will be released next week following Belfast born composer Neil Martin as he prepares for a concert in Letterkenny.
Neil Martin – Bóthar an Cheoil on TG4 celebrates Martin’s 25 years with the West Ocean String Quartet while experiencing grief, celebration and new ambitions along the way.
The anniversary concert was held in An Grianán Theatre Letterkenny in July of last tear.
West Ocean String Quartet’s experimental style, which blends traditional and classical music, has earned them much acclaim, and they were joined on stage in Letterkenny by Oscar nominated actor Stephen Rea, trad legend Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill and folk star Jack Warnock.
Neil describes himself as an ‘undisciplined musician’. Although he is no stranger to the spotlight, this project was something different and more personal for him – “I’m both honoured and humbled to be the subject of this film, and deeply grateful to all the creators and contributors. It reasserts to me just how fortunate I have been and continue to be – to collaborate with so many great artists along the way. Their encouragement and support, alongside that of my family, is key to it all.”
Director Damian McCann said: “It was an honour to follow one of Ireland’s most prolific musicians across a year’s worth of work. Neil Martin is an artist I’ve long admired and to be able to witness his artistic process at close quarters has been a career highlight. I hope audiences learn as much from Neil’s creative journey as I have.”
With contributions from his wife Siobhan, four children, bandmates and close friends, this revealing film follows Neil reflecting on the significant moments that have shaped his life, as he embarks on a new chapter in his musical career.
Neil Martin: Bóthar an Cheoil is a Below the Radar TV production for TG4 and BBC Northern Ireland, with support from Northern Ireland Screen’s Irish Language Broadcast Fund.
Watch Neil Martin – Bóthar an Cheoil on TG4, 18th April – 19:15
Tags: