Singer-songwriter Eileen Laverty joins the SSO for our live stream A Night in Dublin – we took some time to catch up with her ahead of our performance!
SSO: What was the writing process for Tread Softly like? The song has become a calling card for you, one that never ages – do you find new life in singing it each time?
EL: I had an idea for a melody which played over and over in my mind, and one night I found inspiration in a W. B. Yeats’ poem, “He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven.” I’m very pleased that people connect with it. The song and has led me to some lovely musical connections and opportunities over the years.
SSO: You grew up in Ireland; how did your early experiences there shape you as a person and an artist?
EL: When I think about influences I immediately think of my Uncle Des who taught me to play the guitar. He was very involved with the Saskatoon (and later, Hamilton) branch of the Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann, a group talented and dedicated people who meet regularly to share their love of Irish music and culture. I was very fortunate to have their encouragement and support when I was just starting out. Through these connections I met some friends and we formed a celtic band together, and that’s where I discovered my love of singing and performing. My Uncle Des now lives in Nova Scotia, and he has recently been honoured by the International Comhaltas organization in recognition of his contribution over many years.
SSO: Your style of folk music performance has been celebrated as possessing incredible emotional depth and versatility. Where does your musical passion come from, and how do you give your music such a personal touch?
EL: I love to sing. I also love a good story, and when you put it with a lovely melody, there’s nothing better.
SSO: Who are some Irish musicians (current or previous generations)that you look to for inspiration?
EL: That’s a tough question because there are so many different styles of Irish music, so the list is long! Mary Black would be at the top of the list of favourite singers. I also I love when popular music forms include traditional tunes and instruments, or when there’s a new take on a traditional tune. Steve Cooney’s recent (solo guitar) album, where he interprets Irish harp tunes composed in the 1600s to 1800, is just brilliant.
