George Reese, (Tin Whistle, mandolin and vocals). George works as a technical illustrator for the aerospace industry, but he has taken whistle-blowing to new heights. The tin whistle is the instrument in Claddagh most closely associated with Irish music and George does a great job performing with that authentic Eire. His theatrical background also makes him one of the best story tellers in Southern California.
Jim Greene, (Bass Guitar, vocals). Jim comes from a musical family, his beloved father had a masters degree in voice and his brother is a well known operatic tenor who toured for many years in Europe before settling back in the U.S. Jim began a professional career in music with Dan, being together the "Two-Thirds Majority" duo from 1973-1976. Giving up music as a non-profitable bad habit, Jim has become a lighting gaffer for the film industry. It took Dan 20 years of coaxing (misery loves company) to persuade him to be the most recent addition to Claddagh, (only 16 years), he adds a solid bass and a stellar vocal range. No longer the newest member, Michael has taken over that spot.
Dan Ryan, (Vocals, guitar) Dan, the leader of the band, is the educated musician; BA in music, a music teaching credential and 39 years in the entertainer's school of hard knocks ... pictured here with the newest (and youngest) member of Claddagh, Michael.
Jim Greene, (Bass Guitar, vocals). Jim comes from a musical family, his beloved father had a masters degree in voice and his brother is a well known operatic tenor who toured for many years in Europe before settling back in the U.S. Jim began a professional career in music with Dan, being together the "Two-Thirds Majority" duo from 1973-1976. Giving up music as a non-profitable bad habit, Jim has become a lighting gaffer for the film industry. It took Dan 20 years of coaxing (misery loves company) to persuade him to be the most recent addition to Claddagh, (only 16 years), he adds a solid bass and a stellar vocal range. No longer the newest member, Michael has taken over that spot.
Dan Ryan, (Vocals, guitar) Dan, the leader of the band, is the educated musician; BA in music, a music teaching credential and 39 years in the entertainer's school of hard knocks ... pictured here with the newest (and youngest) member of Claddagh, Michael.
Claddagh is an Irish folk band. Our name comes from the famous Claddagh ring, worn by people for over 400 years, which symbolizes friendship, loyalty, and love. The band incorporates these virtues into their songs, with the added virtue of rollicking fun.
During the "off-season", (11 months from Apil thru February), Claddagh consists of a core trio of talent; Dan Ryan, George Reese, and Jim Greene. They perform a wide variety of music which includes originals, country, sea-faring ballads, Lightfoot and Buffet favorites, and of course more than a fair dash of Irish music.
To view more photos from over the years, click HERE
Michael Patrick Ryan - Michael plays banjo, mandolin, penny whistle, guitar, trumpet, harmonica, tambourine, has recently added bass - and has the most Irish name of us all. He is inspired by and inspires Claddagh and his buoyant spirit and enthusiasm for people and music will captivate your heart!
Here's a sample of our sound: