Talamh Dubh is a trio with collective ties to Ireland and a love for Irish music. Their name, “Dark Earth” in Gaelic, pays homage to the volcanic ground of the Cascade range upon which the group formed. Featured in their repertoire are jigs, reels, hornpipes, marches, waltzes, and songs.
Amanda Wrenn, born and raised in Anchorage, fell in love with the violin at an early age. She started by playing classical music and eventually discovered the joy of Irish fiddling at a session in Bend, Oregon, the start of years of dedication and study in the tradition. In addition to fiddle, Amanda sings with Talamh Dubh.
Michael Long, of Asheville, North Carolina, grew up immersed in a rich musical landscape that shaped him into a multi-instrumentalist. He has studied directly with Caitlín Nic Gabhann and Mick O’Brien, and credits them—along with Johnny Óg Connolly and Tim Collins—as key influences on his approach to the Irish tradition. In Talamh Dubh, Michael plays Uilleann Pipes, Concertina, Whistles, and Bodhrán.
Patrick Leonard, born in Belfast, grew up listening to Irish music and watching his mother happily dance jigs & reels. After dedicating himself as a professional musician in various genres, Patrick returned to his roots, cutting his teeth at traditional Irish music sessions, and later performing with various groups on the East Coast, including Gypsy Dargle and Nu Sean Nós. With Talamh Dubh, Patrick features on guitar and vocals.
