Irish Music Ottawa's First Year!

Where'd the time go? Already it has been a year since I quietly launched the not-for-profit Irish Music Ottawa website. Over time the hit counter has gone up in dribs and drabs, and occasional bursts of activity, such as after the Paddy Keenan concert in March. In total, the 'IMO' web page has had approximately 8500 hits as of it's 1st Anniversary. So much has happened in the year. There have been may festivals, workshops, and concerts, plus a fairly active and geographically healthy scene of local Irish/'Celtic' traditional music sessions. Somehow, Irish Music Ottawa, managed to host a house concert with the renowned Gearoid O hAllmhurain and Ian Clarke, and then the legend himself, Paddy Keenan. Both shows broke even, and I am left with the awkward question of what, or who next? Lend me your suggestions. Over the year I have met or interacted with many of you, and I can say that it is a great way to meet very talented and interesting people from a wide variety of backgrounds. I have always liked that about music - something which brings people together with a common interest. One of my few regrets is not updating this blog often enough, though I was counting on more submissions from 'readers' like you, because I'm not really sure I know enough to entertain, or educate, any of you so often. Hint hint, got something to say, please let me know, and I'll get it posted on the blog! On the personal side, I have not been able to concentrate as much on my whistle playing as much as I would have liked, due to work and personal commitments, but I have recently purchased a respectably good flute, and so trust that I have not given up! On a final note (like D, say...), Irish Music Ottawa is only what YOU make it. I just maintain the page. I do not have a crystal ball. If there is an upcoming event you know about, please let me know at the contact email, and I will strive to get it posted at my earliest convenience for the good of all. One it tells me people are using the site, and two it means more people have access to the information and can support Irish (and related) traditional music in the region. Thank you very much for supporting Irish Music Ottawa. Craig