Hi Christy
Dave is still struggling with his technology…we all miss his winderful 4711er contributions.
He sends word from deep within an eccles cake that he is in touch with david rooney who was mentioning to dave about spreading the word on his piece with Echotal being music and film called Poseidon….so here is hoping i don’t muck it up Christy…from old trafford and the sea with love from 2 daves https://youtu.be/haAlmJf4Dyo
Rory
Christy's reply
This is engrossing…
I keep returning to it..
memories of Paul Doran’s Greenland resound
Hello Christy,
Its only a week and a bit from the Marquee and I’m starting to feel excited. Its snuck up on me, feels like ages since, we travelled. We’re staying a night by the, sea in Anglesey to get the ferry.
I’m starting to think about where to explore near Cork. My friend Fiona says we must go to Kinsale. Her old stamping ground. I’m dreaming of sea and water.
Rebecca
Christy's reply
this year we discovered Johnstown Castle near Rosslare.. its a beautiful place to spend a few hours
Wonderful post from Mpieszka that shows how special the gigs and the songs are and what a family of listeners you have created. Lovely gig tonight in Bellaghy with Peggy Seeger and Callum. Such a fine voice and great sense of humour she has and wonderful to hear Callum sing Ewan’s Joy of Living – looked like an emotional moment for Peggy remembering other times. Quick visit to visit Seamus’ resting place to pay respects – and to the resting place of Bellaghy’s other boys too. All those linked by songs over the years. Long may we continue to be inspired, educated and entertained.
Christy's reply
Ewan MacColl’s “Joy of Living” always stills the night for me….”My Old Man” is another gem from the Scots Son of Salford ….hearing him helped steer a course for me…his timbre still resounds…
Peggy & Calum are blazing a trail around the Island….
……..
black mourning around Tamlaghtduff has turned to burning pride
Some lovely reading on the GB here of late.. the songs have some reach..across the world.. the way they are carried, nurtured and sang.. the feelings they bring to people of all ages, their ability to take you to a place and time, every time.. special..
Hope the Gibson 49 enjoys its new home..be great to hear it sometime.. playing at a friends wedding on Saturday in Sligo.. have been asked to sing Jimmy Macs ‘Bright Blue Rose’..hope I do it justice..
Go well in Cavan and in Cork..
“I rambled round from town to town for hackling was my trade, none can deny I think that I an honest living made..”
Christy's reply
Jimmy’s Blue Rose is a classic…..close your eyes and succumb to its charms ..you’ll be huge in Sligo
Hello Christy,
I would like to say that the Tullamor gig on 11th of June was amazing! The Christy Moore gig was my dream for nearly 30 years!!! And the dream came true in Tullamore!!! I have come to Tullamore especially for the concert. I came from Kraków, Poland on Friday night and left on Monday!!! I haven’t come to visit Ireland and go for the gig. I came especially for the gig and, by the way, I have visited some nice places and pubs in Tullamore, Dublin and Howth. Why was your concert my long-lasting dream? When I was a student, nearly 30 years ago I was working in few studs in England, mainly in Newmarket. I am still involved in horses’ breeding – I am professor and university teacher at the Agricultural University in Kraków teaching students about horses and dogs. During my stay in England I had met few very nice and funny Irish guys who were working together with me. We spent a lot of time together also after work. Ivan, one of the Irish guy, was a great fan of Irish music and he introduced me and my friends to your music but also to the Fureys and other Dubliners. And… I have fallen in love!!!! But not with Ivan (I was already married) but with your lovely songs! I got the tape with your music from Ivan. Your songs have accompanied me and my family for the next 30 years!!! My daughters are also keen on your music as they were pressed by me to listen it when they were children, especially during long drive for holidays. Last few months were really difficult for me, I had realised how fragile life is… And I have decided to bring my dreams come true!!! So I was in Tullamore on 11th of June listening Christy Moore singing for me!!! You were amazing with your energy and engagement!!! And we, people at the gig, were singing with you just from the first minute of the gig!!! It was amazing I really enjoyed it and I was also moved so by your melancholic songs… My favourite is The Voyage… I had tears in my eyes when you sang that… I have separated from my husband about 1,5 ago and the song remains me that my husband was also a great fan of your songs… And I have met so nice people at the gig, in Tullamore and in Ireland!!! You Irish are quite similar to us, Poles… Hilary was amazed by my story and she gave me your guitar pick (I hope it is yours:-)) and she advised me to write to you…. So I did… Your voice was with me for last 30 years… I met Ivan in 1992…
I wish you good lack and buckets of health and strength for next gigs!!!
Best wishes Magdalena
Christy's reply
Thank You Magdalena….happy to read that your visit was a joyful one…these old songs have carried me around the world many times…and now they have carried you to Ireland….
Tullamore felt like the United Nations last Saturday….good listeners from many far flung places with Magdalena from Kraków at the heart of it all….
Hello Christy and All,
An email came through this morning saying that The Living Tradition magazine is closing down. It sounds like another casualty of Brexit, they’re talking about postal costs to Europe now being higher than subscription charges for the magazine.
They’re not the only ones. Teifi Harps have closed down in Wales. Mark Norris the, Scottish harp maker says its nothing to do with a lack of orders. His own harp string business has dried up in Europe for the same reason, high postal charges. I’m still hopeful of getting my new harp from him but I know he’s been struggling. He says he’s back in the workshop now, being creative, as he should be, not wrestling with the stupidity of Brexit.
Here’s the announcement from the living tradition.
Important announcement regarding the future of The Living Tradition
For almost 30 years now, The Living Tradition has been in print, and for many years you have been on this journey with us. We’ve seen lots of changes, and we feel we’ve successfully played our part in promoting traditional folk music in these islands and beyond.
But we feel the time has now come when we can put down our pens, knowing that we have done our share, and so we are letting you know that The Living Tradition magazine will cease publishing after our next issue, which will be out at the beginning of August. This was a difficult decision to come to – the magazine has been such a huge part of our lives for so long, particularly for Pete and Heather who changed the direction of their lives when they chose to create LT all those years ago – but we trust you will support us now, as you always have.
Since we began publishing in 1993, the world has changed enormously. When we began, not too many artists had websites of their own with which to promote themselves; CDs and other information about artists and what was going on were sometimes hard to come by; and social media wasn’t really heard of. The world is a different place now and the print magazine’s place in it has changed – particularly for independent publications like ours with no financial backing from elsewhere. But we are immensely proud of the work we have done and what we have achieved in 30 years. It will be for others to take this work forward now, in different ways.
Recent times have brought extra challenges
We have worked hard to keep the magazine afloat during the COVID era. The resulting decrease in advertising revenue when nothing was really happening was difficult, but more recently an additional series of cost pressures have taken us to a point where a printed magazine has become unsustainable. One example, but by no means the only one, is postal costs. We all see the benefits of email, texts etc., but this has meant that postal services are dramatically increasing their prices for physical mail. It has now reached the point where posting a copy of the magazine overseas costs more than our subscription income on that item. UK postal prices have also risen substantially. Although energy cost increases aren’t a significant direct factor for us, indirectly they are significant, particularly on paper costs.
While we’ve managed to weather the storm so far, thanks in no small way to support from many of you, we feel the time is right to stop now, before we start to get in a situation that would lead to debt. It also feels like the right time in our personal lives to make this change – it will be nice to have time for other things.
Subscriptions
Announcing the end of the magazine while still having several months of work to do will have a financial impact for us. Subscription income is critical to us, and with the decline in advertising revenue over the last while, it is even more so. We will now be unable to accept new subscriptions, but with this issue and a further one to come, any loss of renewal income will hit us hard and leave a gap in our monthly income over a period when we will still have costs to cover – printing bills, postage, websites, phones, software and computer systems and other running costs. None of the team have taken a proper wage from LT for many years, and we were happy to work on that basis because we recognised the importance of it, but this means that we are not in the position personally to cover these final costs; in short, there’s no buffer in the bank. We hope that those of you who have enjoyed the benefits of the magazine over the years will help us over this final hurdle.
For those of you whose subscriptions are now due, we have decided to send out a renewal reminder anyway, but instead of looking for a re-subscription, we’ll refer to a possible ‘donation’ which would help sustain us over the next few months. Some of you might consider donating the full normal subscription rate, but we would be happy to receive any amount – even just enough to cover a single final issue (and, of course, the option to buy single issues is still available on the homepage of our website).
For those of you whose subscriptions are still current, we hope that most of you will be happy with the service you’ve had from us over the years, and all the magazines you’ve received, and that you won’t mind missing out on a few issues. We’ve clearly stated in the magazine and on our website over the past few years that subscriptions are only valid until the expiry of the magazine – and sadly that time has come. But if you feel that this is treating you unfairly, get in touch with us and we’ll do what we can to come to some arrangement.
Even for those of you whose subscription is not due for renewal, we are asking that you consider making a final contribution to the magazine in the form of a donation to help us finance the magazine during these last few months without getting into the red. You can donate easily using the link on our website front page (www.livingtradition.co.uk). Or you can, of course, send us a card payment or cheque.
Advertise in our final issue
Advertisers, particularly our regulars, have helped us to continue our work over the years and have been an important part of the magazine. Advertising income from our final issue will be another vital source of revenue for us in the coming weeks, and we hope that those of you who are in a position to, will use this last chance to advertise in our pages in August. Contact us to book your space.
Legacy Options
Although the magazine will be coming to an end, we recognise the current and ongoing importance of our archives and continued access to information. The website, for instance, is still a resource for people, and includes an extensive list of festivals, folk club information, articles and reviews, etc.
Our archives of printed articles and photographs is substantial and important. The magazine has always been lodged with the National libraries and copies sent to the Smithsonian. Longer term, Pete is hoping to be able to keep certain parts of the website active and, as always, he has an idea or two up his sleeve for the future. He is aware that The Living Tradition archives contain a wealth of information that would be awful to lose. What shape this will take will become clearer as we move forward, and obviously there is a cost impact for him as well, but we hope that you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of our work over the last 30 years into the future.
Our final issue – Celebrating 30 years of achievement
We are sure that many of you would want to help us to continue to explore options to allow us to stay in print, and for that we are immensely grateful, but we have concluded that we’ve arrived at the right decision for the magazine and for us. We now feel we need to focus on managing the process and perhaps also to take some solace from reflecting on what the magazine has achieved. We hope that our final print issue of The Living Tradition is one of celebration rather than sadness, and that in the days to come, you’ll join us in looking back on the work of the last 30 years with fondness and even a bit of pride.
If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to get in touch. The best way is by email to admin@livingtradition.co.uk, but other contact details are on page 3.
With gratitude for all your support,
Fi, Jim, Pete and Heather.
Christy's reply
That is sad,bad news for our small community…their announcement delivered without rancour or resentment..with love and compassion for their readers…..no reference to the lying,crooked, self serving,vicious brexiteers who bring downfall to so many institutions
Hi Christy,
Messaging here can be so easy that sometimes it just floods out of us, and sometimes life takes us on different routes.
Wherever we go and whatever we do however there are always the cornerstones like
The voyage
Taking tea with pinochet
20 majors and a box of matches
Yellow triangle
The diamondtina drover
Black is the colour
……And beyond
So even when i don’t know what to say or think, i know you are there saying or thinking it for me.
Rory
Christy's reply
Hard at it here Rory….Prepping for Cavan this week with an eye firmly fixed on the trip to Cork next week…
came across a guitar last month in Some Neck Guitar Shop in Dublin….a 1949 Gibson…went into the shop a few times to try it out and took the plunge…traded in two guitars, an Atkin and a Taylor……its a bit battered (like myself), it has a beautiful tone, perfect for the finger-picking songs….dont know yet if it will become a gigging guitar ……its constantly on the go here in the work room…..if I ever record again it will definitely feature..
Hi Christy yes it was in the premier snooker club .. was talking to u in Vodafone in dun laoghaire shopping centre a while ago .. was chatting to u about snooker ..
Christy's reply
“The Prem” was a great snooker hall….. the long passage into Eugene’s dark cave…the atmosphere quiet and concentrated….strong tea and cold Kit-Kats …Eugene on his perch surveying all…ably assisted by his extended family…it was top class
Hi Christy .. great to see u doing a few gigs around the country .. I hope well and still playing the bit of snooker .. I used to have a few frames with u a long time ago
Christy's reply
Where did we play James ? Was it in The Prem ? My cue is behind the hall door untouched for many years…one of my old snooker pals passed last month…the late Sean Garvey R.I.P……along the way I’ve hidden away in manys the dingy hall ..played my Son Andy a lot (he once scored an 82)….once played 23 frames on the trot..a Stephen’s Day in The Prem with Maguire….played one frame against The Whirlwind himself at an Exhibition in Sallynoggin…..
Its surely wonderful to be back playing a few gigs around the country….Tullamore last week, County Cavan come Friday, then the “Big Tint be De Banks” next week…
“you may travel far far from your own native home ” ( Jack McAuliffe)
Having just touched down in Michigan after a mad few weeks at home (my native Cork and beyond), we have been reflecting on an absolutely incredible experience in Tullamore on Saturday evening. My eldest, Emilia is 7 years old, and has been raised on your music. Her favorites include your rendition of Johnny Jump Up, Sail on Jimmy, and Fairytale of New York, which you so kindly blessed us with on Saturday. Her evening was made all the more special by your kindness. She has been showing off your set-list to friends and family on both sides of the pond, and telling everyone how you called her forward to shake her hand. I am sure you saw her swaying away in the front row. Thank you for giving her, and myself, an experience we will never forget!
Christy's reply
Grand Rapids is such an evocative placename….reminds me of :
“If I was a River I would be
a raging River wild and free
across the Waterfalls I’d flow
and rush the rapids down below”……(Declan O’Rourke)
I was very aware of Emilia last Saturday Night in Tullamore. She was the closest listener in the room and directly in my eyeline. I’m seldom so aware of a listener …If I’d known in advance I’m sure Johnny & Jimmy might have appeared. Very best wishes to you all in Grand Rapids…
Powerful performance in Tullamore Saturday night,, highlights too many too mention, thank you for December 1942,, please keep performing it least we forget, testimony to how much show enjoyed by all,, at end of night ,, when standing ovation time came,, every man, woman and child were on there feet, and no one was leaving until encore complete .
I guess you be only able to perform at these energy levels for about another 25 years ,, after that you probably need to scale it down a bit 😜
Christy's reply
thanks for travelling…the Honda 50 still crossing counties spreading good vibrations from”The Furze”
Hello Christy,
You’re right aren’t you. We are all at our own gig. As the performer you’re locky enough to be at all of them. Like the little Newfoundland gal, Holly, being on that stage with you has been a dream for what seems like forever.
There’s nothing g like wishing for the unattainable, is there.
So, struggle or not, those gigs are the biggest gift in the world. And they’re yours, under the big moon high above the Bog of Allen.
This is for you https://youtu.be/3dyUsXgL7ow
Missed out on tickets for Dublin etc while home on holiday in July/Aug after 3 years. Great to see you selling out as always Christy. Loved your concerts in Perth. All the very best and thank you for your wonderful gift. 💚
Christy thank you! My 9 year old son has been waiting to see you since before COVID hit. He goes to sleep nightly listening to your CD’s and last night his dream came true! He was first in the door and raced for front row seats. You didn’t disappoint, what an amazing concert. A night he will always remember, seeing his idol on stage! Thank you!!
Christy's reply
an uplifting note of lovely feedback,,so good to hear of your 9YO hearing the songs..better then any gold disc on the wall
Hi Christy, tickets in the bag for the Orchard County on 27th October 2022. My friend Ann Neeson’s birthday is on 31st – Halloween. Like me she has been going to your concerts for what seems like forever. If possible, could you sing Bright Blue Rose for her. Going to see Peggy and Callum in the Black Box in Belfast on Thurs. Looking forward to it, it’s a cracking wee theatre. Saffrons played the Rebels on Sat – Corrigan Park on Whiterock Road/Ballymurphy on the skirts of the Black Mountain. Luke Meade no 9 gave our young nephew his jersey…hero! Maybe the ghosts of Rosalita and Jack waltzed through the crowds. Sorry to say our County ground is still lying vacant. If that’s not enough I’m a member of Féile Women’s Singing Group and we are having a concert in the Cultúrlann next week. Ride On is on the song hit list. Go well, Mary
Christy's reply
noted Mary….fingers crossed we all make it to the “one fair county”
SO looking forward to seeing the show in Cork – have been trying to see you on “home turf” for some time now and with the world opening up surely this is the time!
Christy's reply
ach aye de noo Simon…
beidh fáilte romhat arais go dtí Corcaigh
Almost time to see you live again at the Marquee in Cork.
We hope for fine weather so we can see some more of Ireland this time.
I love to hear the songs of your new album but just if it is possible and you could do Butterfly, that would be awesome. It is the favourite song of my husband and since we are married 20 years this year, I try to surprise him where I can.
We like the odd glass of wine ourselves but happily not as much as the protagonist in the song.
Anyway when I read the above it promises to be a beautiful night.
Hi C. Words do n’t often fail me, but this run of gigs, the energy, the setlist, the bodhran outro in the Well, the huge committment and generosity to your listeners is almost beyond description, I guess you have to be there. It is such a joy and privilege to be present and to soak it all up, the welcome from the crowd, the company of 4711ers and friends, such positive vibes, the healing almost. Whatever bird seed you are shaking in your porridge keep it up ! Ár míle, míle buíochas arist leat féin agus don foireann go léir. Beir bua agus beannacht. H
Christy's reply
Come Monday morning….focusing now on Slieve Russell and The Marquee beyond…the feedback from Tullamore gets me back on track..been playing “Patrick Murphy” this morning in anticipation of giving it “up de banks”…
great to hear about young listeners from Tullamore and USA,long haul listeners from Poland and Melbourne…stalwarts from An Ríocht, Moate, Yellow Furze, The Shortgrass..from all four corners…
Míle Buíochais duitse freisin agus don na hÉistóirí go léir mór thímpeall an Domhain ( will this phrase get the approval of CS17? )
“Come gather round me people and a story I will Tell”
Morning Christy,
WOW, what a night in Tullamore last night . You were in mighty form from the throw in. Non stop high energy…. Song after song just flowed seamlessly….. and a great Saturday night Choir added to the night.
Thanks so much Christy, your dedication and commitment is deeply appreciated.
Ride onn.
Patsy
Christy's reply
Hi Patsy..proof again that I’m not always the best judge of my own gig..betimes last night I was struggling a bit..thankfully it was not apparent to the Moate correspondent…everything was perfect..the room , the audience , the night, yet I struggled a bit…years ago, if I was struggling everyone would hear about it…these days I have much greater appreciation of the gifts bestowed, for the songs that come my way, for the people that come to hear them, having a voice and hands and good health to perform them..I drove home slowly last night..the moon was high above the Bog of Allen….I reflected upon my good fortune and gave thanks out across the Plains of Kildare
Hi Christy
Dave is still struggling with his technology…we all miss his winderful 4711er contributions.
He sends word from deep within an eccles cake that he is in touch with david rooney who was mentioning to dave about spreading the word on his piece with Echotal being music and film called Poseidon….so here is hoping i don’t muck it up Christy…from old trafford and the sea with love from 2 daves
https://youtu.be/haAlmJf4Dyo
Rory
This is engrossing…
I keep returning to it..
memories of Paul Doran’s Greenland resound
Hello Christy,
Its only a week and a bit from the Marquee and I’m starting to feel excited. Its snuck up on me, feels like ages since, we travelled. We’re staying a night by the, sea in Anglesey to get the ferry.
I’m starting to think about where to explore near Cork. My friend Fiona says we must go to Kinsale. Her old stamping ground. I’m dreaming of sea and water.
Rebecca
this year we discovered Johnstown Castle near Rosslare.. its a beautiful place to spend a few hours
Wonderful post from Mpieszka that shows how special the gigs and the songs are and what a family of listeners you have created. Lovely gig tonight in Bellaghy with Peggy Seeger and Callum. Such a fine voice and great sense of humour she has and wonderful to hear Callum sing Ewan’s Joy of Living – looked like an emotional moment for Peggy remembering other times. Quick visit to visit Seamus’ resting place to pay respects – and to the resting place of Bellaghy’s other boys too. All those linked by songs over the years. Long may we continue to be inspired, educated and entertained.
Ewan MacColl’s “Joy of Living” always stills the night for me….”My Old Man” is another gem from the Scots Son of Salford ….hearing him helped steer a course for me…his timbre still resounds…
Peggy & Calum are blazing a trail around the Island….
……..
black mourning around Tamlaghtduff has turned to burning pride
Some lovely reading on the GB here of late.. the songs have some reach..across the world.. the way they are carried, nurtured and sang.. the feelings they bring to people of all ages, their ability to take you to a place and time, every time.. special..
Hope the Gibson 49 enjoys its new home..be great to hear it sometime.. playing at a friends wedding on Saturday in Sligo.. have been asked to sing Jimmy Macs ‘Bright Blue Rose’..hope I do it justice..
Go well in Cavan and in Cork..
“I rambled round from town to town for hackling was my trade, none can deny I think that I an honest living made..”
Jimmy’s Blue Rose is a classic…..close your eyes and succumb to its charms ..you’ll be huge in Sligo
Hello Christy,
I would like to say that the Tullamor gig on 11th of June was amazing! The Christy Moore gig was my dream for nearly 30 years!!! And the dream came true in Tullamore!!! I have come to Tullamore especially for the concert. I came from Kraków, Poland on Friday night and left on Monday!!! I haven’t come to visit Ireland and go for the gig. I came especially for the gig and, by the way, I have visited some nice places and pubs in Tullamore, Dublin and Howth. Why was your concert my long-lasting dream? When I was a student, nearly 30 years ago I was working in few studs in England, mainly in Newmarket. I am still involved in horses’ breeding – I am professor and university teacher at the Agricultural University in Kraków teaching students about horses and dogs. During my stay in England I had met few very nice and funny Irish guys who were working together with me. We spent a lot of time together also after work. Ivan, one of the Irish guy, was a great fan of Irish music and he introduced me and my friends to your music but also to the Fureys and other Dubliners. And… I have fallen in love!!!! But not with Ivan (I was already married) but with your lovely songs! I got the tape with your music from Ivan. Your songs have accompanied me and my family for the next 30 years!!! My daughters are also keen on your music as they were pressed by me to listen it when they were children, especially during long drive for holidays. Last few months were really difficult for me, I had realised how fragile life is… And I have decided to bring my dreams come true!!! So I was in Tullamore on 11th of June listening Christy Moore singing for me!!! You were amazing with your energy and engagement!!! And we, people at the gig, were singing with you just from the first minute of the gig!!! It was amazing I really enjoyed it and I was also moved so by your melancholic songs… My favourite is The Voyage… I had tears in my eyes when you sang that… I have separated from my husband about 1,5 ago and the song remains me that my husband was also a great fan of your songs… And I have met so nice people at the gig, in Tullamore and in Ireland!!! You Irish are quite similar to us, Poles… Hilary was amazed by my story and she gave me your guitar pick (I hope it is yours:-)) and she advised me to write to you…. So I did… Your voice was with me for last 30 years… I met Ivan in 1992…
I wish you good lack and buckets of health and strength for next gigs!!!
Best wishes Magdalena
Thank You Magdalena….happy to read that your visit was a joyful one…these old songs have carried me around the world many times…and now they have carried you to Ireland….
Tullamore felt like the United Nations last Saturday….good listeners from many far flung places with Magdalena from Kraków at the heart of it all….
Hello Christy and All,
An email came through this morning saying that The Living Tradition magazine is closing down. It sounds like another casualty of Brexit, they’re talking about postal costs to Europe now being higher than subscription charges for the magazine.
They’re not the only ones. Teifi Harps have closed down in Wales. Mark Norris the, Scottish harp maker says its nothing to do with a lack of orders. His own harp string business has dried up in Europe for the same reason, high postal charges. I’m still hopeful of getting my new harp from him but I know he’s been struggling. He says he’s back in the workshop now, being creative, as he should be, not wrestling with the stupidity of Brexit.
Here’s the announcement from the living tradition.
Important announcement regarding the future of The Living Tradition
For almost 30 years now, The Living Tradition has been in print, and for many years you have been on this journey with us. We’ve seen lots of changes, and we feel we’ve successfully played our part in promoting traditional folk music in these islands and beyond.
But we feel the time has now come when we can put down our pens, knowing that we have done our share, and so we are letting you know that The Living Tradition magazine will cease publishing after our next issue, which will be out at the beginning of August. This was a difficult decision to come to – the magazine has been such a huge part of our lives for so long, particularly for Pete and Heather who changed the direction of their lives when they chose to create LT all those years ago – but we trust you will support us now, as you always have.
Since we began publishing in 1993, the world has changed enormously. When we began, not too many artists had websites of their own with which to promote themselves; CDs and other information about artists and what was going on were sometimes hard to come by; and social media wasn’t really heard of. The world is a different place now and the print magazine’s place in it has changed – particularly for independent publications like ours with no financial backing from elsewhere. But we are immensely proud of the work we have done and what we have achieved in 30 years. It will be for others to take this work forward now, in different ways.
Recent times have brought extra challenges
We have worked hard to keep the magazine afloat during the COVID era. The resulting decrease in advertising revenue when nothing was really happening was difficult, but more recently an additional series of cost pressures have taken us to a point where a printed magazine has become unsustainable. One example, but by no means the only one, is postal costs. We all see the benefits of email, texts etc., but this has meant that postal services are dramatically increasing their prices for physical mail. It has now reached the point where posting a copy of the magazine overseas costs more than our subscription income on that item. UK postal prices have also risen substantially. Although energy cost increases aren’t a significant direct factor for us, indirectly they are significant, particularly on paper costs.
While we’ve managed to weather the storm so far, thanks in no small way to support from many of you, we feel the time is right to stop now, before we start to get in a situation that would lead to debt. It also feels like the right time in our personal lives to make this change – it will be nice to have time for other things.
Subscriptions
Announcing the end of the magazine while still having several months of work to do will have a financial impact for us. Subscription income is critical to us, and with the decline in advertising revenue over the last while, it is even more so. We will now be unable to accept new subscriptions, but with this issue and a further one to come, any loss of renewal income will hit us hard and leave a gap in our monthly income over a period when we will still have costs to cover – printing bills, postage, websites, phones, software and computer systems and other running costs. None of the team have taken a proper wage from LT for many years, and we were happy to work on that basis because we recognised the importance of it, but this means that we are not in the position personally to cover these final costs; in short, there’s no buffer in the bank. We hope that those of you who have enjoyed the benefits of the magazine over the years will help us over this final hurdle.
For those of you whose subscriptions are now due, we have decided to send out a renewal reminder anyway, but instead of looking for a re-subscription, we’ll refer to a possible ‘donation’ which would help sustain us over the next few months. Some of you might consider donating the full normal subscription rate, but we would be happy to receive any amount – even just enough to cover a single final issue (and, of course, the option to buy single issues is still available on the homepage of our website).
For those of you whose subscriptions are still current, we hope that most of you will be happy with the service you’ve had from us over the years, and all the magazines you’ve received, and that you won’t mind missing out on a few issues. We’ve clearly stated in the magazine and on our website over the past few years that subscriptions are only valid until the expiry of the magazine – and sadly that time has come. But if you feel that this is treating you unfairly, get in touch with us and we’ll do what we can to come to some arrangement.
Even for those of you whose subscription is not due for renewal, we are asking that you consider making a final contribution to the magazine in the form of a donation to help us finance the magazine during these last few months without getting into the red. You can donate easily using the link on our website front page (www.livingtradition.co.uk). Or you can, of course, send us a card payment or cheque.
Advertise in our final issue
Advertisers, particularly our regulars, have helped us to continue our work over the years and have been an important part of the magazine. Advertising income from our final issue will be another vital source of revenue for us in the coming weeks, and we hope that those of you who are in a position to, will use this last chance to advertise in our pages in August. Contact us to book your space.
Legacy Options
Although the magazine will be coming to an end, we recognise the current and ongoing importance of our archives and continued access to information. The website, for instance, is still a resource for people, and includes an extensive list of festivals, folk club information, articles and reviews, etc.
Our archives of printed articles and photographs is substantial and important. The magazine has always been lodged with the National libraries and copies sent to the Smithsonian. Longer term, Pete is hoping to be able to keep certain parts of the website active and, as always, he has an idea or two up his sleeve for the future. He is aware that The Living Tradition archives contain a wealth of information that would be awful to lose. What shape this will take will become clearer as we move forward, and obviously there is a cost impact for him as well, but we hope that you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of our work over the last 30 years into the future.
Our final issue – Celebrating 30 years of achievement
We are sure that many of you would want to help us to continue to explore options to allow us to stay in print, and for that we are immensely grateful, but we have concluded that we’ve arrived at the right decision for the magazine and for us. We now feel we need to focus on managing the process and perhaps also to take some solace from reflecting on what the magazine has achieved. We hope that our final print issue of The Living Tradition is one of celebration rather than sadness, and that in the days to come, you’ll join us in looking back on the work of the last 30 years with fondness and even a bit of pride.
If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to get in touch. The best way is by email to admin@livingtradition.co.uk, but other contact details are on page 3.
With gratitude for all your support,
Fi, Jim, Pete and Heather.
That is sad,bad news for our small community…their announcement delivered without rancour or resentment..with love and compassion for their readers…..no reference to the lying,crooked, self serving,vicious brexiteers who bring downfall to so many institutions
If I was earth all filled with bees I’d move mountains about with ease.
I’d help green shoot splt open stones and turn dead flesh into clean bones.
The day is here, I will survive
It’s all I know, give growth and life.
Bigger than oceans, small as a flower
The breath of breeze and the hurricane’s power.
Thanks for sharing
Hi Christy,
Messaging here can be so easy that sometimes it just floods out of us, and sometimes life takes us on different routes.
Wherever we go and whatever we do however there are always the cornerstones like
The voyage
Taking tea with pinochet
20 majors and a box of matches
Yellow triangle
The diamondtina drover
Black is the colour
……And beyond
So even when i don’t know what to say or think, i know you are there saying or thinking it for me.
Rory
Hard at it here Rory….Prepping for Cavan this week with an eye firmly fixed on the trip to Cork next week…
came across a guitar last month in Some Neck Guitar Shop in Dublin….a 1949 Gibson…went into the shop a few times to try it out and took the plunge…traded in two guitars, an Atkin and a Taylor……its a bit battered (like myself), it has a beautiful tone, perfect for the finger-picking songs….dont know yet if it will become a gigging guitar ……its constantly on the go here in the work room…..if I ever record again it will definitely feature..
Hi Christy yes it was in the premier snooker club .. was talking to u in Vodafone in dun laoghaire shopping centre a while ago .. was chatting to u about snooker ..
“The Prem” was a great snooker hall….. the long passage into Eugene’s dark cave…the atmosphere quiet and concentrated….strong tea and cold Kit-Kats …Eugene on his perch surveying all…ably assisted by his extended family…it was top class
Hi Christy .. great to see u doing a few gigs around the country .. I hope well and still playing the bit of snooker .. I used to have a few frames with u a long time ago
Where did we play James ? Was it in The Prem ? My cue is behind the hall door untouched for many years…one of my old snooker pals passed last month…the late Sean Garvey R.I.P……along the way I’ve hidden away in manys the dingy hall ..played my Son Andy a lot (he once scored an 82)….once played 23 frames on the trot..a Stephen’s Day in The Prem with Maguire….played one frame against The Whirlwind himself at an Exhibition in Sallynoggin…..
Its surely wonderful to be back playing a few gigs around the country….Tullamore last week, County Cavan come Friday, then the “Big Tint be De Banks” next week…
“you may travel far far from your own native home ” ( Jack McAuliffe)
Christy,
Having just touched down in Michigan after a mad few weeks at home (my native Cork and beyond), we have been reflecting on an absolutely incredible experience in Tullamore on Saturday evening. My eldest, Emilia is 7 years old, and has been raised on your music. Her favorites include your rendition of Johnny Jump Up, Sail on Jimmy, and Fairytale of New York, which you so kindly blessed us with on Saturday. Her evening was made all the more special by your kindness. She has been showing off your set-list to friends and family on both sides of the pond, and telling everyone how you called her forward to shake her hand. I am sure you saw her swaying away in the front row. Thank you for giving her, and myself, an experience we will never forget!
Grand Rapids is such an evocative placename….reminds me of :
“If I was a River I would be
a raging River wild and free
across the Waterfalls I’d flow
and rush the rapids down below”……(Declan O’Rourke)
I was very aware of Emilia last Saturday Night in Tullamore. She was the closest listener in the room and directly in my eyeline. I’m seldom so aware of a listener …If I’d known in advance I’m sure Johnny & Jimmy might have appeared. Very best wishes to you all in Grand Rapids…
Powerful performance in Tullamore Saturday night,, highlights too many too mention, thank you for December 1942,, please keep performing it least we forget, testimony to how much show enjoyed by all,, at end of night ,, when standing ovation time came,, every man, woman and child were on there feet, and no one was leaving until encore complete .
I guess you be only able to perform at these energy levels for about another 25 years ,, after that you probably need to scale it down a bit 😜
thanks for travelling…the Honda 50 still crossing counties spreading good vibrations from”The Furze”
Hello Christy,
You’re right aren’t you. We are all at our own gig. As the performer you’re locky enough to be at all of them. Like the little Newfoundland gal, Holly, being on that stage with you has been a dream for what seems like forever.
There’s nothing g like wishing for the unattainable, is there.
So, struggle or not, those gigs are the biggest gift in the world. And they’re yours, under the big moon high above the Bog of Allen.
This is for you
https://youtu.be/3dyUsXgL7ow
Rebecca
Thanks for sharing
Missed out on tickets for Dublin etc while home on holiday in July/Aug after 3 years. Great to see you selling out as always Christy. Loved your concerts in Perth. All the very best and thank you for your wonderful gift. 💚
hope you have a good trip home Phil..
Christy thank you! My 9 year old son has been waiting to see you since before COVID hit. He goes to sleep nightly listening to your CD’s and last night his dream came true! He was first in the door and raced for front row seats. You didn’t disappoint, what an amazing concert. A night he will always remember, seeing his idol on stage! Thank you!!
an uplifting note of lovely feedback,,so good to hear of your 9YO hearing the songs..better then any gold disc on the wall
Hi Christy, tickets in the bag for the Orchard County on 27th October 2022. My friend Ann Neeson’s birthday is on 31st – Halloween. Like me she has been going to your concerts for what seems like forever. If possible, could you sing Bright Blue Rose for her. Going to see Peggy and Callum in the Black Box in Belfast on Thurs. Looking forward to it, it’s a cracking wee theatre. Saffrons played the Rebels on Sat – Corrigan Park on Whiterock Road/Ballymurphy on the skirts of the Black Mountain. Luke Meade no 9 gave our young nephew his jersey…hero! Maybe the ghosts of Rosalita and Jack waltzed through the crowds. Sorry to say our County ground is still lying vacant. If that’s not enough I’m a member of Féile Women’s Singing Group and we are having a concert in the Cultúrlann next week. Ride On is on the song hit list. Go well, Mary
noted Mary….fingers crossed we all make it to the “one fair county”
SO looking forward to seeing the show in Cork – have been trying to see you on “home turf” for some time now and with the world opening up surely this is the time!
ach aye de noo Simon…
beidh fáilte romhat arais go dtí Corcaigh
Dear Christy,
Almost time to see you live again at the Marquee in Cork.
We hope for fine weather so we can see some more of Ireland this time.
I love to hear the songs of your new album but just if it is possible and you could do Butterfly, that would be awesome. It is the favourite song of my husband and since we are married 20 years this year, I try to surprise him where I can.
We like the odd glass of wine ourselves but happily not as much as the protagonist in the song.
Anyway when I read the above it promises to be a beautiful night.
see you on De Banks of our own Lovely Lee
Hi C. Words do n’t often fail me, but this run of gigs, the energy, the setlist, the bodhran outro in the Well, the huge committment and generosity to your listeners is almost beyond description, I guess you have to be there. It is such a joy and privilege to be present and to soak it all up, the welcome from the crowd, the company of 4711ers and friends, such positive vibes, the healing almost. Whatever bird seed you are shaking in your porridge keep it up ! Ár míle, míle buíochas arist leat féin agus don foireann go léir. Beir bua agus beannacht. H
Come Monday morning….focusing now on Slieve Russell and The Marquee beyond…the feedback from Tullamore gets me back on track..been playing “Patrick Murphy” this morning in anticipation of giving it “up de banks”…
great to hear about young listeners from Tullamore and USA,long haul listeners from Poland and Melbourne…stalwarts from An Ríocht, Moate, Yellow Furze, The Shortgrass..from all four corners…
Míle Buíochais duitse freisin agus don na hÉistóirí go léir mór thímpeall an Domhain ( will this phrase get the approval of CS17? )
“Come gather round me people and a story I will Tell”
Morning Christy,
WOW, what a night in Tullamore last night . You were in mighty form from the throw in. Non stop high energy…. Song after song just flowed seamlessly….. and a great Saturday night Choir added to the night.
Thanks so much Christy, your dedication and commitment is deeply appreciated.
Ride onn.
Patsy
Hi Patsy..proof again that I’m not always the best judge of my own gig..betimes last night I was struggling a bit..thankfully it was not apparent to the Moate correspondent…everything was perfect..the room , the audience , the night, yet I struggled a bit…years ago, if I was struggling everyone would hear about it…these days I have much greater appreciation of the gifts bestowed, for the songs that come my way, for the people that come to hear them, having a voice and hands and good health to perform them..I drove home slowly last night..the moon was high above the Bog of Allen….I reflected upon my good fortune and gave thanks out across the Plains of Kildare