In a moving tribute to the late Séamus Begley, the documentary: Seamus Begley: The Bold Kerryman unfolds the
extraordinary journey of an unexpected musical virtuoso, whose profound influence transformed the landscape of Irish music.
From humble beginnings to international acclaim, Séamus’s life story resonates across continents, leaving an indelible legacy celebrated in this heartfelt production.
His sudden passing in January 2023 created a void felt deeply by his family, friends, and the global community of musicians who held him in high esteem.
Infectious Exuberance
Capturing the infectious exuberance that defined Séamus both on and off the stage, the documentary paints a portrait of a man at ease farming his fields in West Kerry as much as on international platforms.
Séamus epitomized the spirit of Corca Dhuibhne—a unique Gaeltacht community where Gaelic identity thrives through language, music and culture.
The film sheds light on Séamus’s role as a musical leader, emphasizing the remarkable and unexpected collaboration with Australian musician Steve Cooney.
A Fiery Union
The fiery union of the West Kerry farmer Séamus and the Australian hippy, Steve Cooney, produced an iconic sound and the classic album Meitheal marking a groundbreaking moment in Irish music and a testament to Séamus’s ability to transcend borders with polkas, slides, humor and soul-stirring songs.
Collaborating with musical luminaries such as The Waterboys, Sharon Shannon, Jim Murray, Téada, and more, Séamus expanded the reach of West Kerry’s unique musical spirit, captivating audiences worldwide.
A Life Well Lived
Contributions from Séamus’s family, including his wife Máire and children Breanndán, Eoin, Níall, and Méabh, along with brother Breanndán and lifelong friends John Teaimí Ó Laoithe and Diarmuid Begley, provide a vivid portrayal of a life well-lived.
Musical comrades such as Steve Cooney, Mary Black, Mike Scott, Sharon Shannon, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Jim Murray, and Donogh Hennessy share their memories, underscoring the profound impact Séamus had on the world of Irish traditional music.
A Lovable, Bold Kerryman
Directed by Feilimí O’Connor and produced by Niamh Ní Bhaoill, Seamus Begley: The Bold Kerryman is a poignant and uplifting tribute to a supremely talented musician—a lovable, bold Kerryman whose accordion mastery and enchanting voice continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The documentary is produced by Aniar and commissioned by RTÉ and the transmission date is: Friday, December 29th on RTÉ One at 6:30pm.
You can contact The Maine Valley Post on… Anyone in The Maine Valley Post catchment area who would like to send us news and captioned photographs for inclusion can send them to: jreidy@mainevalleypost.com Queries about advertising and any other matters regarding The Maine Valley Post can also be sent to that address or just ring: 087 23 59 467.
