What’s On
Damien O'Kane and Ron Block Band
Thursday 22nd October
Banjo Besties – UK & Ireland Tour
St Johns Place
This October, two of the most influential banjo players in modern acoustic music unite for a landmark tour across the UK and Ireland. The Banjo Besties Tour brings together Damien O’Kane and Ron Block with their band — artists whose work has redefined the possibilities of the banjo within their respective traditions. Melding bluegrass and Irish traditions, and Americana, this is a collaboration that pushes boundaries while honouring deep musical heritage. Expect exhilarating musicianship, intricate interplay, and a live performance that is as emotionally powerful as it is technically stunning. Both Damien and Ron are not only masters of their instruments, but also exceptional vocalists — each bringing a distinctive voice shaped by their own rich traditions. From soaring harmonies to intimate, heartfelt delivery, their singing adds a powerful new dimension to an already compelling musical partnership. Damien O’Kane’s ground-breaking approach to Irish folk and traditional music and of course his leading role with Kate Rusby and her band meets Ron Block’s unmistakable sound — honed through decades at the forefront of American bluegrass, including his work with Alison Krauss & Union Station. Together, they create something truly innovative: a seamless blend of styles that feels both timeless and strikingly new. NOT duelling banjos, much more co-operating banjos! Having already captivated audiences at many venues and some of the UK’s most prestigious festivals — including Celtic Connections, HebCelt and Cambridge Folk Festival — the band brings a proven track record of unforgettable live performances to this highly anticipated tour. Supported by a stellar band of world-class musicians, the Banjo Brothers Tour is more than a concert — it’s a bold and inspiring celebration of creativity, collaboration, musical excellence and craic. Whether you’re a devoted fan of roots music or discovering it for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to witness two pioneers sharing one stage.
£2.50 from each ticket is donated to St John’s Place charity and Salisbury Hospice charity.
If we have any tickets left on the night they will be for sale on the door at £20
Find out more about IMOT Salisbury
About Irish Music On Tour Salisbury
Irish Music on Tour (IMOT) Salisbury is a not for profit organisation that brings the cream of Irish musicians to the cathedral city, and raises money for local charities.
Founder Finbarr Sheehan held his first gig in 1991 with Four Men and a Dog. Over the years many amazing musicians have visited Salisbury, including luminaries such as Altan, Lunasa, Lankum, Stockton's Wing, De Dannan, Sharon Shannon, Daoiri Farrell, Mary Coughlan, Eleanor McEvoy, Paddy Keenan, Matt Molloy, Dermot Byrne and many many more.
Supporting Salisbury Hospice
The main charity we support is Salisbury Hospice. Over the years we have raised more than £6000 via ticket sales and collections at live events.
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