The White Horse Guitar Club (21st June)

From  a wet March evening in their local pub in 2012 to sold-out tours, millions of online views, and a performance at Áras an Uachtaráin for President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina, The White Horse Guitar Club has become a celebrated force in Ireland’s music scene and beyond. Born in Ballincollig, Co. Cork, out of an open call by Joe Carey at The White Horse pub, this eleven-man band has grown from a casual gathering into one of Ireland’s most exciting musical acts.

With their soulful blend of rich harmonies, timeless folk traditions, and a distinctly Irish essence, The White Horse Guitar Club has struck a chord with fans worldwide. Their music offers more than just a performance—it creates a deeply resonant experience that lingers in the hearts of audiences long after the final note.

A Journey Built on Connection

What sets The White Horse Guitar Club apart is their deep commitment to camaraderie, connection, and community, with music and song serving as the powerful threads that weave it all together.

“The band is very much based around camaraderie, friendship, and joy—sometimes a missing facet in bands,” says Joe Carey. “All eleven of us sing in unison, harmony, and melody. The sound of eleven guitars adds a unique dimension, and on paper, it shouldn’t work—but it does.”

This ethos of connection is at the heart of their live performances, which are described as deeply emotional, bringing audiences together through a shared sense of joy, storytelling, song, and spirit.

Capturing Hearts Across the Globe

Their rendition of Townes Van Zandt’s “If I Needed You”has garnered over 1.7 million views on YouTube, capturing the attention of BBC presenter Cerys Matthews, who hailed them as “a band that is taking Ireland, and the rest of the world, by storm.”

The White Horse Guitar Club’s music regularly features on Irish airwaves, championed by broadcasters like Fiachna Ó Braonáin, John Creedon, and Tom Dunne. Their performances have drawn widespread acclaim:

“There is no better way to spend a night out.” – The Irish Examiner

“Everybody was stopped in their tracks by the sound they created.” – Ray D’Arcy, RTÉ

“Beautiful stuff and a strong sense of camaraderie.” – Tom Dunne, Newstalk

Even President Higgins has praised their artistry, saying:

“There is an authenticity to The White Horse Guitar Club’s performance in which the musicians allow themselves to take all the risks while delivering a very professional concert. This has the great effect of making the experience a very personal one for everyone in attendance. Good for the heart and soul—the music knows no borders.”