Eamann

I met Liam Collins when he was getting his engineering degree, was big into basketball and had never
studied music. His father, Dave, was a box player who had grown up in the Bronx playing traditional
music and dancing. Dave gave up life in the city to raise his children on a farm in rural Lowville, NY.
While asking students to bring in music of their heritage, I was pleasantly surprised when a student,
John Collins, brought me a tape of his father's jig being played by Brian Conway. Never could I have
expected to share so much and to receive more when I sat in the Collins' kitchen to play on our first
meeting. Dave and his wife Chris have encouraged me to follow my passion and sing the sean nós songs.
My contribution was to provide Dave with the opportunity and drive to play for his family again and to
pass on to them his love of the old style. It is clearly evident in this recording that Liam embraced this
passion. I no longer live in Lowville but the memories of our Thursday night session and "Trad Linn" at
the Collins house will always be my inspiration. Thanks to our Lowville friends for their support.

Both tunes were gotten from All Ireland whistle and flute champion, Mike McHale. I still remember
the night I first heard the air at the McHale house. Mike played with such feeling and passion that it
moved me to tears. The reel, Amelda Rolands, I got as well from Mike at the "Catskills Irish Arts Week".