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Gatehouse Captivates with Irish Music at Oulu Cathedral

Last year, Oulu Cathedral was filled to the brim as fans of Irish music gathered to enjoy traditional melodies in a truly atmospheric setting. The concert was a resounding success, with the audience clapping and dancing along. This year, an equally remarkable experience is anticipated as the Irish band Gatehouse takes the altar stage at Oulu Cathedral.

the artists are standing next to each other and smile

Hailing from Roscommon, Gatehouse has been performing together since 2014. The band is composed of top-tier musicians: vocalist Rachel Gravey, guitarist and concertina player Jacinta McEvoy, violinist and mandolinist John McEvoy, and flutist and whistle player John Wynne. Together, these musicians create a unique soundscape, where the captivating blend of flute and violin intertwines with Rachel's bright vocals and Jacinta's delicate guitar playing. The result is an enchanting mix of soulful songs and instrumental pieces that transport the listener directly to the lush meadows of Ireland.

Everything took shape subtly

The Gateway ensemble has been playing for ten years. John Wynne shares the story of Gatehouse's formation and evolution:

"John McEvoy and I had been playing together since 2007, and ten years ago, we started thinking about our next move. John’s wife, Jacinta, joined us on guitar, and we wondered if we could expand our lineup. I asked local singer Rachel Garvey to join us, and that’s when everything fell into place. We practiced a little, and before we knew it, we were a band. The audience liked us right from the start."

Choosing a band name took some time until fate intervened during a photography trip in the Irish countryside.

"Our photographer took us to a gatehouse by a beautiful lake. We looked around and wondered if we could name the band Gatehouse. The name felt right immediately and came about unexpectedly," Wynne recalls.

Church venues and Irish music: Gatehouse's perfect match

Gatehouse has performed in a variety of settings worldwide, but churches, in particular, are ideal venues for their music.

"Churches provide a fantastic acoustic environment and atmosphere that perfectly suit the sensitivity and tone of our music," Wynne explains.

At their Oulu Cathedral concert, Gatehouse will offer a diverse selection of traditional Irish music in both Irish and English. The repertoire includes popular traditional pieces as well as original compositions by John McEvoy.

"We want the audience to feel the spirit of the music and enjoy it to the fullest. We hope people will clap along, maybe even dance," Wynne smiles.

Jacinta McEvoy's guitar playing and arrangements receive special praise from flutist and whistle player Wynne, while John McEvoy adds extra flavor to the concert by switching between violin and mandolin.

Gateway’s debut in Oulu: a celebration of Irish music and cultural collaboration

Wynne recalls how their interest in participating in the Irish Festival of Oulu was first expressed several years ago. So, when the festival’s organizer and artistic director, Brent Cassidy, reached out last year, they were eager to join.

“I’ve never been to Oulu before, and I’m really excited about our upcoming concert,” Wynne shares.

Satu Saarinen, Cathedral Dean of the Oulu Cathedral Congregation, expresses her enthusiasm about the event:

“I would like to express my joy and gratitude for the long-standing collaboration between the Irish Festival of Oulu and Oulu Cathedral. The rich diversity of Irish music has added depth and cultural richness to our congregational life.”

Cassidy shares similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the collaboration:

“Our vision is to bring the finest Irish traditional music to a wider audience in Oulu and across Finland. The collaboration with Oulu Cathedral has been incredibly positive—110%—in achieving our mutual goals. The historic Oulu Cathedral is one of the festival’s main venues, and it provides such a stunning setting for traditional Irish music.”

“We are delighted that Gateway is performing in Oulu and warmly welcome everyone to the concert,” Saarinen concludes.

Another unforgettable evening awaits at Oulu Cathedral, as Gatehouse takes the audience on a journey to the heart of Ireland on Thursday, September 26, 2024, starting at 6:00 PM. Tickets are €15/25 plus service fees. Purchase your tickets in advance from Ticketmaster. Tickets will also be available at the door, and card payment is preferred.
The concert is part of The Irish Festival of Oulu event.

Satu Saarinen
Satu Saarinen
Tuomiorovasti
Isokatu 17
90100 Oulu

13.9.2024 06.00