Eleanor Shanley first Irish woman inducted into Tønder Hall of Fame

Irish folk legend Eleanor Shanley has been inducted into the prestigious Tønder Festival Hall of Fame in Denmark, becoming the first Irish woman to receive the honor. The induction ceremony, held on November 16 at Hagge’s Music Pub in Tønder, celebrated Shanley’s decades-long contributions to folk music and her special relationship with the festival.

The Tønder Festival is one of Europe’s most renowned folk and roots festivals, having hosted legendary artists such as Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, and Emmylou Harris. Shanley’s connection with the festival dates back to the 1990s, with her most recent performance at this year’s 50th-anniversary celebration. Her induction into the Hall of Fame cements her place among an elite circle of folk icons.

“This is a particularly meaningful honor for me,” said Shanley. “I’ve always felt a strong connection to Tønder Festival, and it’s incredibly special to be recognized in this way.”

Poul-Henrik Jensen, Vice-Chairman of the Tønder Festival Foundation, lauded Shanley’s role as a cultural ambassador for folk music. “Eleanor’s voice and presence have been an integral part of our festival’s story,” he remarked. Messages of congratulations poured in from Shanley’s friends in the music industry, while family and close friends traveled from Ireland to Denmark to share in the celebration. The evening’s highlights included performances by Danish singer Helene Blum & Harald Haugaard, Cathy Jordan of Dervish, and Shanley herself, who captivated the audience with her signature emotional delivery.

Shanley’s induction is the latest milestone in a career rooted in her hometown of Keshcarrigan, County Leitrim. Her musical journey began in a home filled with song, influenced by her mother’s love for music and her uncle’s rich voice. “Music was always part of our family gatherings,” she recalled. Her big break came when she joined De Danann as lead vocalist, where her unique voice became a hallmark of Irish folk music.

Her passion for preserving traditional Irish music has seen her collaborate with icons like Ronnie Drew, Christy Moore, and the Danish band MC Hansen and The Sentimentals. “I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most incredible artists, and each collaboration has taught me something new,” Shanley noted. Her work with Garadice and The Leitrim Equation project underscores her dedication to preserving and promoting Leitrim’s musical heritage.

Shanley’s commitment extends beyond the stage. She’s currently collaborating on a project celebrating the songs of Percy French and will tour Denmark with classical guitarist John Feeley in 2024. “I’m excited to bring new life to the songs of Percy French,” she shared. Reflecting on her journey, she notes, “If you believe in what you’re singing, it’s accessible to an audience.” Her Hall of Fame induction is a fitting tribute to a life devoted to authentic musical expression.