John McEvoy is a highly respected fiddle player, composer and teacher, originally from Birmingham, UK, and now based in County Meath, Ireland. Influenced by masters such as Brendan McGlinchey and renowned Clare fiddlers John Kelly (Senior) and Joe Ryan, John has developed a distinctive voice that blends tradition with strong personal expression. An experienced musician, deeply rooted in the Irish tradition, he is known for his natural, unforced fiddle style, rich in lift, swing, and rhythmic drive.
A number of his compositions have been recorded by other groups and musicians, including Grainne Hambly, John Carty, Dónal McCague, and Jack Talty, among others, further establishing his reputation as a composer within the tradition.
John has been involved in multiple collaborative projects and has toured widely with bands including Donal Lunny’s Celtic Orchestra, Bakerswell, Kelp, and Providence and tours currrently with the acclaimed traditional band Gatehouse.
His extensive discography includes group releases with Bakerswell and Gatehouse, solo albums, and duet recordings with renowned flute-player Catherine McEvoy and Roscommon’s John Wynne, with whom he continues to work closely. His latest project, ‘The Boyne Mist’, recorded with concertina player Jacinta McEvoy, features traditional tunes and new compositions focusing on the history and landscape of Co. Meath and showcases their shared musical life and deep connection to the tradition.
A dynamic performer and inspiring teacher, he has been closely associated with the Willy Clancy Summer School since the early 1980s and has taught workshops throughout Europe, New Zealand and the USA
Core Instructor – Fiddle | Lecturer – Echoes of Home: Reflections on Irish Fiddle Styles in Emigrant Communities
2010, 2026