Chris Droney, is one of the most respected concertina players in Ireland. The legendary musician from Bellharbour was born in 1924. His father, James and Grandfather Michael (1829-1927) also played concertina and Chris learnt by ear from the age of eight. He began his musical career by learning two tunes The Wearing of the Green and Clare’s Dragoons.

His first public appearance was at the age of 14 in Johnson’s dance hall in Kinvara for which he was paid half a crown. He went on to play in several bands and from 1956 he won ten All-Ireland medals – nine solo and one for a duet with fiddler Gus Tierney.

His son, Francis and daughter, Ann have also won All-Ireland titles on concertina. Many of his grandchildren are continuing the family tradition on concertina and some are playing fiddle.

In 2004 his contribution to music was honoured by a CCÉ Bardic Award. He has also been the recipient of a Teastas award and in 2012 he received the prestigious Clare Person of the Year. In 2014 Chris was the recipient of the TG4 Gradam Saoil (Hall of Fame) Award.

Francis Droney is the son of Chris Droney and again he represents the vibrant and unique style of concertina playing that is distinctively the ‘North Clare’ style of playing. Francis has won accolades at all levels at Fleadhanna Ceoil including the Senior All Ireland competition. Francis toured Britain and United States with Comhaltas. Francis has also spent much time, in Doolin and the North Clare area playing with many of the greats of traditional Irish music.