The inimitable Noel Hill was born in Caherea in western County Clare into a very musical household where his parents, grandparents and grandaunts were all concertina players. He was particularly influenced by his uncle, Padraig A' Chnoic (Paddy Hill), who also played the concertina. His house was the last in the area to hold the traditional house dances, where musicians were always welcomed. It was at these events that he learned his early music at the feet of Willie Clancy, Paddy Canny, Peter O’Loughlin and Paddy Murphy. Much of the music in his repertoire five decades later still bears the mark of these great musicians. Noel is also attributed to the growth in popularity of the concertina. not only because of the inspiring performances many of us have witnessed, but also because of his many years as a committed teacher. In fact, he will be joining our community in Portland after his week-long concertina camp down the road in Newberg. Please be sure to purchase you tickets in advance as this show will likely reach capacity and sell out. We can think of no better place to showcase his playing than within Waverly's wooden chapel.