Tim Britton, taking a turn on the tin whistle. Brian Miller accompanies on guitar.
Tim Britton is no stranger to the Philadelphia Irish Center or to the annual Philadelphia Ceili Group Festival. So for Britton and festival-goers alike, it was time Thursday night to become reacquainted.
Accompanied by guitarist Brian Miller, Britton held his audience in thrall for a couple of hours worth of uillean pipe mastery. From slow airs to slip jigs, Britton demonstrated the range and breadth of his talent… and Miller his clever ability to just go with anything Britton did.
For most of the night, Britton stuck to pipes, but he also played a few tin whistle tunes. He even sang “Lagan Love”—a tribute to recently deceased Ceili Group vet Frank Malley, who he says often implored him to sing.
The festival goes on Friday and Saturday at the center, 6815 Emlen Street in Mount Airy. Be there.
In the meantime, if you couldn’t make the opening concert, here are some photos and videos.
Videos: