Mary Coogan is well known to those who enjoy the music of Cherish The Ladies. Together with Joanie Madden she is a founding member of the group and has been playing guitar, banjo, and mandolin for enthusiastic audiences around the world for over 30 years.
Mary was born in Yonkers, NY. Her mother Celia Casserly came from County Roscommon and her father Jim Coogan played the accordion. She was exposed to traditional music from an early age through frequent house parties and sessions.
Mary can be heard on over 14 Cherish the Ladies recordings, and also has critically acclaimed recordings of her own, including a children’s album: The Big Ship Sails (a Parents’ Choice Award winner) and Passing Time, which was recorded with her father.
Mary has a masters degree in education, and when not on tour teaches mandolin, banjo, and guitar in the NY area. She also records and performs regularly with her husband, singer and uilleann piper, Bruce Foley.
Instructor – Mandolin
2017