Weaving the traditions of Dance, Music, Art & Language

12-1pm Beginners, $15 1-2:30pm Intermediate/Advanced, $20

New to the bodhran? Already been playing a while and curious as to how to move beyond simple rhythms and play tunes on your bodhran? Either way, stop in at the Center for Irish Music!
To register, contact admin@centerforirishmusic.org or 651-815-0083 Registration also available at the door.

Chicago native Brian Wade was born into a traditional Irish music and dance family. As number 6 of 6 children, he grew up with the Irish rhythms in his bones. He had natural talent on the bodhran when he took it up at age 11 under tutelage of Kevin Rice (Baal Tinne). By the age of 14 Brian was performing professionally with various other Irish and rock groups around Chicago. For six years, Brian was also an accompanist to student ensembles at the The Academy of Irish Music, directed by Noel Rice (Co. Offally).
A multiple winner of the Midwest Fleadh Cheoil competitions as a bodhran soloist and group accompanist, Brian has appeared at Milwaukee Irish Fest, the Minnesota Irish Fair, Chicago Celtic Fest, and the Chicago Highland Games. In addition to frequent live appearances Brian has recorded with several Traditional Irish and Rock groups including The HiBs, Teuce and his latest group, Milk and Honey.
Brian does not just play rhythms, he plays tunes on his drum. With a unique style and natural ear for music, Brian can walk into any room and pick up a melody with ease. “Wade, who plays with an uncommon tastefulness and range of tone...” takes influences from modern Irish artists such as Flook and Dónal Lunny. He infuses gentle funk and jazz rhythms into his playing.