Page 12 - SPIRE Apr-Jun 2022 2nd Issue DIGITAL

I had read you graduated magna cum laude from Iona
College and have done some post-graduate work in
mathematics. Music itself is indeed very mathematical,
what mathematic principles do you find apply to your
music?
Eileen: Exactly, math and music are very much
intertwined …contrary to popular opinion! The logic of
math is certainly found in music from ratios of
harmonies of intervals (octave 2:1, a perfect fifth 3:2),
to obvious rhythmic timings fitting together, to counter
melodies, complex compound rhythms ….it goes on and
on …I don’t want to bore your readers! For me,
sometimes the part where the logic doesn’t want to be
applied anymore is where the real musical magic may
happen. Math and music may rub - an improvised note
might want to be held on a bit longer, possibly creating
an uncomfortable but excited feeling over a new chord
where the note shouldn’t logically land. That’s often
where the “feel” enters …and you have to go with that,
defy that innate logic!

You and your band do educational/outreach programs at What inspired you to write a children’s book?
schools, and other venues. Are there any past instructors Eileen: When the lockdowns happened, I found myself being
M u s i c a n d c o n n e c t i o n
that you look up to? What qualities did they have that you busier than ever in creating videos to hopefully help
admired? theaters and festivals keep going during this crazy time. I
Eileen: My first and only fiddle teacher, Martin Mulvihill! was also heavily involved with our son’s remote school
Martin was so kind and radiated the music to his students. learning and with eldercare for my mom. Then I realized …I
h a p p e n e v e r y w h e r e !
He taught mostly by ear, but one was able to really pick up missed performing, so much. Missed not being able to get
on the subtleties that is inherent in our tradition. out there and move an audience through music. It hit me
one day that I could still hopefully make a difference and
Describe your creative process when writing a new How has teaching music impacted you as a musician? move little ones …through a children’s book. Having read so
song. Original or cover, what is your favorite song to perform Eileen: I think being a traditional musician holds certain many to my son through the years, I always appreciated a
Eileen: I first started writing tunes and songs because I live? responsibilities in that it’s important to share that gift of good book, with a positive message tucked within it. Then
couldn’t find a suitable one from the tradition that hit Eileen: Original music has a certain energy …I’m loving music to new students of the tradition - and keep the music came the idea of “Bluey”, the blue violin that doesn’t get
where I wanted it to hit, whether it be lyrically or performing a violin loop I wrote, “Wah Wah One Violin”, thriving into the next generation as well. By teaching music, played because he doesn’t look like the rest. The book’s
instrumentally. Songs like “Shine” and “Walk On” speak where I improvise over 7 layers of loops. It’s a fun you must really break melodies and concepts down. This theme is an anti-bullying one – reinforcing respect,
to positive, reaffirming qualities in life. They become interactive piece with audience. can sometimes fuel you to get a little deeper into the music kindness, and standing up for yourself. The theme’s
very powerful in concert, when the audience sings with and your own style. inspiration came from our son experiencing being bullied …
the band uniting in such an affirming message. What’s your favorite song that you’ve released and why? "Will Someone Play Bluey?” was born.
Sometimes a certain riff can inspire a tune to come to Eileen: The original song, “Shine”, is a powerful one,
its completion. The slow tune “Gratitude” came this especially in a live environment. Its lyrics speak to life being
way. I later added the faster tune, “Attitude” to so short, and the want to make the most out of it …”to be E I L E E N I V E R S
complete the medley. Where “Gratitude” was melody good and do good.” It becomes very moving when the F e a t u r i n g t h e H a l e y I r i s h D a n c i n g s c h o o l
driven, “Attitude” was written around a chord sequence audience sings with us on the chorus …”we’re all gonna S A T A P R 0 2 | 7 : 3 0 P M
I put together which I felt was so driving, and positive. shine”…
The band and I particularly love performing the
“Gratitude Attitude” set and watching the audience join Being an international touring artist, what has been your
us in the emotional roller coaster. It seems to really hit most memorable moment while on tour?
home in this time we’re all living in …much gratitude for Eileen: Tough to pick just one …but absolutely love sharing
being able to gather again and join in sharing live music! music with new audiences, and of course love experiencing
new cultures. An after the concert session broke out across
Tell us about your favorite performance venues the street in a tiny pub in Tokyo …I ended up playing with
Eileen: Honestly, it’s such a privilege to perform – I’ve the most incredible Japanese-born musicians who sounded
always felt that. We’ve played small intimate venues to like they were from the west of Ireland. Really opens one’s
guesting with the National Symphony Orchestra at the eyes to our small, wonderful world! WWW.EILEENIVERS.COM/
Kennedy Center. We’ve headlined the Falcon Ridge
WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/EILEENIVERS
Folk Festival a few years ago; it got rained out – so we Who's your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?
played acoustically for the volunteers in their tent. Eileen: Anyone with open ears and a respectful heart. WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/EILEENFIDDLE
Music and connection happen everywhere! WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OFFICIALEILEENIVERS