Thom Moore

Irish music was hit a hard blow in 2018, with the passing of a number of its greatest artists. Included in that pantheon of greats was the inspirational songwriter who had Sligo inextricably woven into in his work, his songs and his heart, Mr. Thom Moore.

Many of Thom’s songs have become folk anthems over the years and in this very special concert we celebrate the wonderful legacy that is Thom’s Songbook. A host of musicians and friends of Thom will gather for this celebration, including Seamie O’Dowd, Cathy Jordan, Rick Epping, Eleanor Shanley, Mairtin O'Connor, Mary Mc Partlan, Gerry O'Beirne, Gino Lupari, Gerry and Aoife Grennan and many more.

Moving to Ireland in 1971, Thom Moore had a unique relationship with Sligo. Settling near the town together with his wife Kathy, he formed the folk rock band Pumpkinhead with fellow Americans Sandi and Rick Epping.

Pumpkinhead split up in 1976 and Moore formed Midnight Well with Janie Cribbs, Gerry O’Beirne and Mairtín O’Connor. Moore earned considerable praise for his song writing on numbers like 'Still Believing', 'Saw You Running' and 'Jessie’s Friend'.

Thom spent much of the last three decades in Sligo, a county dear to his heart.

Moore has been cited by a number of Ireland’s most recognisable performers including Maura O'Connell, Charlie McGettigan and Mary Black, who described him as; “A truly gifted songwriter with a beautiful golden voice”. Black spoke of her gratitude to Moore for offering her his song ‘Carolina Rua’, describing his death as; “Another great loss to Irish music and musicians”.