I can picture Jimmy Noonan with his eyes closed and his shoulder going up and down as he plays this tune with accordionist Dan Gurney. When Jimmy moves like this playing his flute, it is a visible sign that he is 'in the groove', giving the music the swing that is such a part of his playing. Listen as these wonderful musicians give 'The Ballina Lassies' that lilt and swing that was associated with the older musicians. One can hear that happy lift in the music of master fiddle player Paddy Killoran, from whose recording Dan and Jimmy learned this tune.

Noonan, Jimmy (flute) 78436746

Killoran, Paddy 78484355

Séamus Connolly

Boston College Libraries

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