Boston Irish Fiddler Seamus Connolly Receiving the Ellis Island Medal of Honor on Saturday, May 11, 2013

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Seamus Connolly, a noted Irish fiddle player whose music, compositions and teaching have influenced a generation of Irish musicians, is a recipient of the 2013 Ellis Island Medal of Honor on Saturday, May 11, 2013. 

The ceremony, which is organized by the National Ethnic Coalition Organizations, takes place on Ellis Island. The medal is given annual to outstanding American citizens, from all walks of life, who have distinguished themselves through their significant contributions to the United States.  Connolly is one of 90 people across all ethnic communities to receive this year's award.  Here is a full list of the 2013 recipients.

The Sullivan Artist in Residence at Boston College and founder of the school's Gaelic Roots program, Connolly grew up in County Clare and is a ten-time All Ireland champion on the fiddle.  He has recorded numerous albums and issued several books on Irish music.  Here is a profile of Seamus Connolly and one of his recent projects.

There is currently an exhibit on The Musical Roots of Seamus Connolly at the John J. Burns Library at Boston College, running through May 23, 2013.

For year round details on the Irish community in greater Boston, visit IrishMassachusetts.com. 


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