Melody Meets Soul

The Irish musical tradition contains multitudes: flair, familiarity, innovation, gravity and whimsy, all of which were displayed by Martin Hayes and Kyle Sanna to a packed Elisabeth Murdoch Hall on Tuesday.

Fiddler Martin Hayes is both a veteran of the Irish music world and one of its adventurous spirits. He and genre-bending guitarist Kyle Sanna combined traditional Irish origins with jazz and blues to fascinating effect.

Though clearly at home on the stage, the duo’s chemistry and informal manner created the comfortable atmosphere of a pub or living room. Hayes introduced pieces with easy familiarity and humour, reinforcing the approachable ambience.

The program opened with The Wild Geese, an entrancing tune which led into a variety of reels, jigs and airs including mournful O’Carolan’s Farewell to Music and The Longford Tinker. Hayes brought great expressive range, subtly accompanied by Sanna, until they traded places, the fiddler’s melodic foundation supporting the guitarist’s exploration of style and harmony. Transitioning between pieces with improvised interludes, the two built steadily to climactic conclusions, and earned enthusiastic applause for each.

Two of Hayes’ own compositions concluded the concert and garnered a standing ovation. After an encore that does not yet have a name but was nonetheless delightful, Hayes and Sanna wished the audience goodnight and safe home.

Lucas Wilson-Richter

Photographer: Jason Rosewarne