Accordionist McPhee set to bring his variety show back to Moate

The Scottish accordion prodigy Brandon McPhee is returning to Moate in October, alongside special guests Tony Allen of Foster & Allen and Manson Grant.

It is just over 15 years since Brandon at the age of ten ventured his first notes on the button accordion at his grandad Donald's knee. A good listener and keen pupil, he was soon playing the "Dark Island".

To say he took to the instrument is an understatement. He mastered the accordion by ear, delving into the melodies without formal instruction or the need of sheet music.

He recorded his debut album, 'A Star is Born', at the age of 11, which paid homage to his accordion idol, fellow Scotsman Will Starr. Within seven years, Brandon had purchased Starr’s accordion from Ireland. By the age of 17, Brandon was the All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion, making history by being the youngest ever winner and the only button accordionist to win in 27 years.

Brandon now has over 18 CDs and 6 DVDs, a music book of over 20 compositions, 10 self-penned songs, and countless awards to his name.

He has worked with some of the finest Irish artists, including Daniel O'Donnell, Philomena Begley and Foster & Allen, with whom he recorded the single 'Spanish Lady'. Another single by Brandon, ‘Walking On The Waves’, made No 1 in the Country Music Charts based on airplay. As his career blossomed, Brandon diversified his musical repertoire, embracing vocal training and mastering the acoustic guitar, adding a new dimension to his performances.

His foray into country music with Manson Grant and the Dynamos opened new avenues of expression, earning him accolades and admiration from fans worldwide.

His influence was further expanded through his television appearances, including on TG4 and his own programme, ‘The Brandon McPhee Hour’ on Spotlight TV Channel, formerly known as Keep It Country TV, for over six years.

Now The Brandon McPhee Show is returning to Moate later this month. Described as a music variety show, the show at Tuar Ard, on Thursday, October 24, promises a mix of country, folk, Irish and Scottish music.

The variety of music covers from Marty Robbins, Don Williams, Frank Sinatra, Irish tenor John McCormack, Sir Jimmy Shand, Will Starr, Donal Ring, Dermot O’Brien and Johnny Cash.

While touring, Brandon’s version of the Johnny Cash standard 'Ring of Fire' was shared on social media. To date it has been viewed by 1.6 million people,

The show will have special guests Tony Allen from Foster & Allen and Manson Grant. Music starts at 8pm, and there will be a meet and greet with Brandon after the show.

According to the show notes on the Tuar Ard website, when Brandon brought his show to Moate last year, there were “standing ovations every night”.