October - Second Saturday Session

Come join us for a fantastic session with musicians Séagda Coyle and Eugene Bender. Sessions are free and open to the public, but donations are greatly appreciated! Eugene Bender began learning the Sligo style of Traditional Irish fiddling when he was in the 3rd Grade, studying with Jo-Ellen Blossom. He spent the next 13 years learning from famed fiddler and teacher Brian Conway and won 1st Place in the under-18 fiddle competition at the Mid-Atlantic region fleadh in 2007. He also studied classical violin at the Music Conservatory of Westchester for 5 years and was first violin in The Baroque Ensemble, The String Ensemble and the Orchestra. He was Concertmaster/violinist of the Manhattan College Orchestra for all 4 years of his undergraduate career, as well as being a member/secretary of the Manhattan College Jazz Band. He continues to be a very much ‘in-demand’ fiddler at concerts and sessions in the Tri-State area. Séagda Coyle began playing the button accordion at the age of 7. Beginning his lessons under Mary Rafferty, Seagda went on to study under John Nolan where he learned most of his music. His primary influences were Joe Madden, Joe Burke, and Bobby Gardiner. A multiple time Mid-Atlantic Champion, All-Ireland medalist, leader of the senior New York Ceili Bands, and former co-instructor of multiple under-age Ceili Bands in the Bronx area, has worked to promote traditional Irish music to the next generation. Seagda has traveled throughout the USA, Mexico, Ireland, and Canada while touring with various groups, most recently with the group, Socks in the Frying Pan. Seagda released his solo album “Rip the Bellows” in 2017 featuring John Walsh, Kathleen Boyle, and Steve Wickins.