Congratulations to Niamh Mc Kinney on winning the Allingham 2015 Songwriting Contest. The final was held in Dicey Reilly's Bar, Ballyshannon, on November 6th. 12 finalists performed in front of a large audience, MC John Meehan and three judges: Cathy Jordan, Ian Smith and Chanele Mc Guinness. The judges had the unenviable task of selecting one song out of 12 to win the grand prize of €1000.
Niamh's song is titled 'Down Near the Sea'. She was accompanied by her brother on guitar and her father on accordion. Although Niamh is new to songwriting, have only started writing quite recently, she has written poetry and other short pieces from a young age. Her influences include Joni Mitchell, Fairport Convention, Kate Bush, Paula Cole, Leonard Cohen and La Lugh.
Thanks to everyone who entered the competition, and everyone who helped make the final night a great success.
Particular thanks to all of our judges, fantastic MC John Meehan, sound engineer Michael Liston, and Dicey Reilly's/Donegal Brewery Company for the use of the venue and sponsoring raffle prizes.