Patrick Dexter Cello
The Wexford Carol - 12th Century Irish Christmas Carol
updated
I’m excited to share with you Port na bPúcaí, a haunting and evocative piece rooted in the traditions of Ireland’s past.
With the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain upon us, it felt fitting to play this tune, which resonates deeply with the spirit of this season—a time when the veil between worlds is thin, and the echoes of the otherworld can be felt more strongly in the air.
The Story of Port na bPúcaí
Port na bPúcaí, or "The Tune of the Fairies/Spirits," is a piece with origins as mysterious as its name. The tune is said to come from the Blasket Islands, where fishermen once heard its haunting melody carried over the waves. According to folklore, the tune came from púcaí, or supernatural spirits, who inhabit Ireland’s land and sea. Captivated by the tune’s beauty, these islanders brought it into the human world, and it has lived on as a moving reminder of things unseen.
Its haunting and mournful melody is unlike most Irish airs, and it reflects the sense of longing and otherworldliness that is so present in this season.
Samhain: Honoring Ancestors and Embracing Mystery
Samhain, celebrated from October 31 to November 1, marks the beginning of the “darker half” of the year in the Celtic tradition. As a time when the veil between worlds was thought to thin, our ancestors would light fires, tell stories, and honor those who had passed. Many customs we now associate with Halloween come from these ancient rituals—such as lighting candles to guide spirits home and setting out offerings.
For me, this time of year feels like a perfect invitation to reflect and connect with something greater than ourselves. Port na bPúcaí is a tune that allows me to tap into that connection, evoking the mystery and beauty of Samhain in a way words cannot.
Thank you for joining me on this journey and for your continued support. I hope this tune brings a sense of peace, wonder, and connection to your own Samhain season.
You can download the full quality audio version here: patreon.com/posts/port-na-bpucai-115020776?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link
And Happy Halloween!
Your friend,
Patrick
Years ago, in the early days of my musical exploration, one of the first gigs I attended was by the fantastic Irish band Kíla in Dublin. It was an unforgettable experience, not just because of the incredible music but also because Shane MacGowan himself was in attendance. Picture this: a young me, utterly captivated by the sounds of Kíla, glancing up to the balcony to see Shane, surrounded by the music he loved, having a great time just like the rest of us.
In those moments, music became more than just notes—it became a shared experience, a communal celebration of the art that moves us. Shane's genuine enjoyment of the music left an indelible mark on me, and I carry that memory with me as I embark on my own musical endeavours.
Today, in honour of Shane MacGowan, I'm excited to share with you my rendition of "Dirty Old Town." Through the rich tones of the cello, I've sought to capture the essence of that shared experience—the joy, the passion, and the connection that music brings.
Above you'll find the full video of my version of "Dirty Old Town". A clip of this video was featured by the BBC and a number of Irish news websites this week, full audio version available here: patreon.com/posts/tribute-to-shane-93892122?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link exclusively for Patreon supporters
Originally this song was written and performed by the great songwriter Ewan Maccall. You may recognise this name. It was Ewan's daughter Kirstie Maccall who famously teamed up with Shane Mac Gowan to record the enduring Christmas song 'Fairytail of New York'. Kirstie was another great artist who died too young tragically in a diving accident at the age of 41.
I'll give the lyrics here to Dirty Old Town, such a classic Pogues song that resonates with the raw, authentic spirit of Shane's work:
.
Dirty Old Town
I met my love by the gas works wall
Dreamed a dream by the old canal
I kissed my girl by the factory wall
Dirty old town
Dirty old town
Clouds are drifting across the moon
Cats are prowling on their beat
Spring's a girl from the streets at night
Dirty old town
Dirty old town
I heard a siren from the docks
Saw a train set the night on fire
I smelled the spring on the smoky wind
Dirty old town
Dirty old town
I'm gonna make me a good sharp axe
Shining steel tempered in the fire
I'll chop you down like an old dead tree
Dirty old town
Dirty old town
I met my love by the gas works wall
Dreamed a dream by the old canal
I kissed my girl by the factory wall
Dirty old town
Dirty old town
.
Your support has been a constant source of inspiration, and I'm grateful to have you on this journey with me. I'd love to hear your thoughts and reflections on this musical homage to a true legend.
Let's continue to celebrate the spirit of Shane MacGowan through the universal language of music. Thank you for being a part of this community and for allowing me to share my musical journey with you.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Your friend,
Patrick
Listen to the full EP here: www.linktree.com/patrickdexter or searching for me wherever you get your music 🎶
I hope this music brings you some of the care and nourishment that writing it brought me.
Have a lovely peaceful weekend ❤️🎶
Patrick
I am thrilled to share with you a special cello cover of 'Zombie' by The Cranberries, right here from the heart of the West of Ireland. This beautiful Irish countryside has always been an inspiration to me, and I wanted to use this enchanting backdrop to pay tribute to a song that carries a powerful anti-war sentiment.
'Zombie' is more than just a song; it's an anthem for peace and a reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and division. Dolores O'Riordan's haunting lyrics remain as relevant today as they were when the song was first released. It's a call for unity, empathy, and the end of senseless violence.
Through this performance, I hope to convey the timeless message of 'Zombie' and emphasize its significance in our world today. Music has the incredible ability to touch the soul and bring people together, and this song's message is more important than ever.
Please, take a moment to listen and reflect on the anti-war sentiment of 'Zombie' and how it resonates with today's challenges. If you feel the same way, I'd be grateful if you could like this video and share it with your friends, spreading the message of peace and love.
Don't forget to subscribe to my channel for more cello covers and performances that aim to touch your heart and inspire positive change through the power of music.
Thank you for joining me in celebrating the enduring legacy of The Cranberries and the importance of 'Zombie's message in our world. Let's stand together for a more peaceful and harmonious future. 🌍🕊️
Stay tuned for more beautiful music from the West of Ireland, and let's make the world a better place, one note at a time. 🎶❤️ #CelloCover #TheCranberries #Zombie #AntiWar #Peace #MusicWithAMessage
Full version available to download here: patreon.com/posts/irelands-call-of-90988451?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link
Please consider supporting my work by buying me a cup of tea here: www.ko-fi.com/patrickdexter
Have a lovely day,
Patrick
One of the first times I ever performed on a big stage was with Sinéad O’Connor. I was playing for my sister’s gospel choir in Dublin, and we shared a stage with Sinéad O’Connor for the annual Africa Day celebration way back when I was in college. She was such an incredible force on the stage such an artist. Really inspired me and her whole career has been inspirational, so many ways. She will be sorely, missed. rest in peace ❤️
I have for you here the full recording of my tribute to Sinead O'Connor watched this week by nearly 3 million people across the world on Twitter/ Instagram. Thank you so much for supporting music and allowing me to keep playing.
I am currently writing new music and am so much looking forward to sharing it with you here soon.
Hoping this music brings you comfort in the same way it has for me.
Warmest regards,
Your friend,
Patrick
I wanted to take a moment to share a truly magical experience that I was fortunate to have. As a cellist, I am constantly exploring the boundaries of music and seeking unique collaborations that ignite the soul. And boy, did I find it!
I had the immense pleasure of dancing bhangra to Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 Prelude with the incredibly talented @GurdeepPandher The fusion of classical music and the vibrant, energetic moves of bhangra created an explosion of joy and unity that I will cherish forever.
There's something extraordinary about witnessing two seemingly different art forms come together in perfect harmony. It was a celebration of cultural diversity, where the rich traditions of the East and the classical compositions of the West met on the dance floor. The music resonated through every fibre of my being, while the rhythmic beats of bhangra filled my heart with uncontainable happiness.
This experience reminded me of the incredible power that music holds. It transcends boundaries, breaks down barriers, and unites us all. It reminds us that we are connected by a universal language that knows no limits.
So as we dive into this weekend, I invite you to embrace the magic of music and dance. Let's celebrate the diversity that surrounds us, and let the rhythms of life move through us with exuberance. Find that song, that beat, or that melody that brings a smile to your face and makes your heart sing.
Thank you, Gurdeep Pandher, for joining me on this unforgettable journey of Bhangra-meets-Bach. Your artistry, passion, and infectious spirit have left an indelible mark on my soul.
Wishing you all a weekend filled with laughter, music, and dance. May it be a time of joy, connection, and renewal. Let's make every moment count!
With gratitude and music in my heart,
Patrick Dexter 🎻❤️
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"What's Love Got to Do with It", a song written by Graham Lyle and Terry Britten, and recorded by American singer Tina Turner for her fifth studio album, Private Dancer (1984).
Like the music? If you'd like to support this music making, please consider:
Clicking the subscribe button and the bell symbol. It's completely free for you and it really helps my channel. Thank you
Writing a comment
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Listen to my music, CDs and vinyl available: www.patrickdexter.com
Thank you so much!
Patrick
If you'd like to support this music making, please consider:
Clicking the subscribe button and the bell symbol. It's completely free for you and it really helps my channel. Thank you
You can also help by:
1. Writing a comment
2. Buying me a one off cup of tea: www.ko-fi.com/patrickdexter
3. Subscribing to Patreon to access to all my recordings: www.patreon.com/patrickdexter
4. Listen to my music, CDs and vinyl available: www.patrickdexter.com
thank you :)
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Song list:
1: Intro from Cello Suite No. 1 by JS Bach
2. Saraband from Cello Suite No. 1 by JS Bach
3. Greensleeves - English Traditional
4. Takeda Lullaby - Japanese Traditional
Performed live at my cottage in the west of Ireland. As you can see, both mine an Jamie's dogs loved the music!
After recording Jamie's new song 'Into the West' recently in a studio, we decided to take the song outside. Jamie's debut song 'Solace' has become one of the biggest instrumental pieces of music to come from Ireland in the last decade. Such an honour to play on his next release 'Into the West'. The song is an exploration into Celtic/ classical and modern film music sounds, a musical journey through the landscape and influences that our a huge part of both mine and Jamie's writing.
Check out Jamie's beautiful piano music wherever you get your music. You can watch the full music video for Into the West here: youtube.com/watch?v=PdoQkFNkgK0
#shorts
30 years since one of the greatest Irish bands of all time, The Cranberries released their debut album 'Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can't We?'.
Patrick's debut album 'Solace' out now: www.patrickdexter.com
Have access to all Patrick Dexter's music and videos at: www.patreon.com/patrickdexter
Oh, in the cherry orchard Lyrics (English translation)
Oh, in the cherry or-chard,
A nightingale, is chattering.
I begged him so, to take me home,
Yet he would not- let me go.
Darling your're mine, and I am yours, I beg of you.
The stars appeared, do let me go.
Awaken will my mother and,
Will ask me then, where I've been.
And you my dear, can answer thus: How lovely is, this May night
Spring has come in, brought in it's beauty,
And in, that beauty, all things rejoice.(repeat last 2 lines)
My daughter dear, it's not about
Where have you been-, all night long?
Why is your braid-, all undone,
And in your eyes, do quiver tears ?
My braid's undone, all unbraided -
My consort has unbraided it.
And in my eyes, tears does quiver,
For I've broken up with my beloved .
My mother dear, the time has come,
And I am gay, and oh so young.
I want to live, and want to love,
Mother, don't scold, your daughter so.(repeat last 2 lines)
Oh, in the cherry or-chard
A nightingale, is chattering.
I went home there, all alone
And he escorted another one home.
-
It's storm season here in the west of Ireland. Even though it happens every year, the power of it always takes me by surprise! When the Atlantic swells rise up and the northern winds howl down the chimney, I usually stay inside by the fire. But I'm driven outside by my impatience for the oncoming spring and melodies on my mind that I can only fully express in the full force of the elements.
I had been wanting to play another Ukrainian song this week. The news from the far end of the European continent this week continues to be relentlessly upsetting. The folk melodies swimming around in my brain, I waited for the weather to break so I could go out and send the melody from my cello out into the Atlantic. I realised that winter's icy chill was not going to abate anytime soon, so decided to embrace the gales and take my cello out in wild wet weather. And though you'll see I had to make a quick escape from the rain towards the end of the performance, It felt cathartic.
This traditional Ukrainian melody I share with you here, 'In the Cherry Orchard', tells the story of a woman in love who goes out to see her beloved even though she wasn’t allowed to. The song dwells on how the couple have to say goodbye, knowing that perhaps they will never be together except for this night 'In the cherry garden'. I find this melody so beautiful and mournful.
The world mourns for Ukraine this week. One year ago we never thought this would be still going on. I offer up my melody to the wild winds that travel in from the ocean and east towards Ukraine sending love and hope to all the people there. May peace return to this continent soon.
Thank you for sharing this moment of music and reflection with me.
Your support is always deeply appreciated and I look forward to more music over the coming weeks.
Warmest regards to you and all those around you.
Your friend,
Patrick
Despite its slow tempo and name which literally means 'slow' in Italian, this piece does not wait around. Its impact is felt within seconds and from there grows and grows to such beauty and sorrow it's almost excruciating in its sublimity. For me, it only took 10 seconds for this piece of music to change my life forever.
When I first heard this music as a teenager, I thought I had given up on classical music for good. I thought it had nothing new to offer. Everything was out of touch and over played. I had no interest. Hearing Samuel Barber's Adagio changed all that.
From the moment the strings swell in the opening bars, I knew there was a power to classical music that could move touch the deepest depths of my soul and move me to tears. I won't say much more about it but needless to say, I would not be playing music today if it weren't for this piece.
Remembering the great American composer Samuel Barber today on the anniversary of his death (1910 – 1981).
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Happy Christmas from the west of Ireland
Thanks to David Blevins and all the crew from Sky News for being such a great guests at my cottage. We shared a warm cup of tea and had some great chats while the wild Atlantic wind blew. We even got some time for cello and chat outside between the showers! A great day, especially for my dog Nisha who made some new best friends ❤️
Search Patrick Dexter and follow me wherever you get your music.
Thank you,
Patrick
Filmed at Whitechurch, on the foothills of the Dublin Mountains.
Thanks so much to the kind people at Whitechurch Parish for allowing us to play in their beautiful church.
If you enjoyed this music, please consider donating to the Dublin Simon Community supporting the homeless this Christmas: https://www.dubsimon.ie/donate-3/
See if you can spot my dog, she loves this song!
Have a lovely day,
Patrick Dexter
Available at: www.patrickdexter.com


