Gavin Whelan is widely regarded as one of the finest exponents of the tin whistle. His eponymous debut recording propelled the tin whistle to centre stage, winning high praise from critics for his crisp, uncluttered phrasing and bright, clean tone. The album, released in 2001, was hailed by one critic as "beautiful, captivating and formidable". He also featured as lead instrumentalist on many TV shows including Geanntraí, Open House, and The High Reel. He has toured Ireland extensively as a solo artist appearing at such prestigious venues including The Cobblestone, Smithfield, Dublin; Whelans, Wexford St., Dublin; The Sprit Store, Dundalk; The Lobby, Cork; The Wexford Arts Centre; An Cultúrlann, Belfast; and The Civic Theatre, Tallaght. In November 2002He has taken part in many festivals including the Finnish Irish Festival in 1998 1999 and 2002; Lapua Folk Festival, Finland;Tel Aviv Irish Festival, Isreal; Gutenbrunn Folk Festival, Austria; Music under the Mountains, Hollywood, Co Wicklow; Beo Celtic Music Festival, National Concert Hall,.
In 2004 he was asked to headline the prestigious Music Network Tour The Next Generation. Since graduating with a Higher National Diploma in Irish music performance from the Senior College, Ballyfermot, Gavin has been actively involved in the teaching of Irish traditional music in primary schools in the Dublin area. and also teaches anually at the Willie Clancy Summer School in Miltown Malbay CoClare,In 2002 he was nominated by Irish Music Magazine for Best Traditional Newcomer for that year. 2006 saw the release of his second album Another Time.
He has just released his third album In full flight.
www.gavinwhelan.ie Hugo Morris
