Tommy Doherty

Tommy started playing the accordion at a young age with the late Jim McElhone, Bellaghy.  He later joined the Greenlough Céilí Band, playing at céilí’s in Derry and Antrim.  When Portglenone branch of Comhaltas was formed Tommy said that it was a great boost for traditional music in the area and he attended some great music sessions in Brian Quinn’s loft and the Wild Duck Inn while making some great friends along the way.  The traditional music classes in the local school followed and Tommy was one of the valued tutors who passed on his skills and love of music. During this time he tutored an Under 18 Céilí band who won at the Ulster Fleadh and went on to compete at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.  Over the years Tommy has enjoyed playing in many great sessions with Portglenone Comhaltas, including trips to Ballinasloe and Tubbercurry and also at the Gig’n the Bann Festival itself. Tommy is at ease playing alongside musicians of all ages and is always eager to give the younger generation the opportunity to play their music as sessions.