Local and international artists of the Irish music community will perform a benefit concert for the Andrew Grene Foundation (AGF) and in memory of local Irish Rock musician Ray Kelly.

The AGF has been hosting annual memorial concerts since Andrew Grene, a UN political affairs officer serving in Haiti, lost his life in the devastating earthquake there. Twin brother Gregory, Director of the Foundation and lead singer of the Prodigals, is this year splitting all proceeds with the Jude Kelly Fund, an educational fund for Ray Kelly’s son. Kelly, who died on January 9, was the lead singer of The Mickey Finns and former member of The Prodigals.
 
Performers include The Prodigals; Allen Gogarty; Cillian Vallely (Lunasa piper) & Ivan Goff (flute – Eileen Ivers Band); Padraig Allen & Buddy Connolly (McLean Ave Band); and Joanie Madden (Cherish the Ladies) amongst others.

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“We were honored to have both of these wonderful men in our lives, and it is good to come together to honor them in a place they both loved,” said Steve Duggan, manager of Paddy Reilly’s.
 
Those who cannot attend the concert but would like to donate can make checks payable to The Andrew Grene Foundation at 159 Madison Ave, #3K, New York NY 10016. Please specify that the check is in reference to this benefit.  

The benefit concert  will take place on Wednesday, January 30 at 7 p.m. for the Andrew Grene Foundation (AGF) and in memory of local Irish Rock musician Ray Kelly. This annual event will be held at the famed Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar on 519 Second Avenue (at 29th Street). There is a suggested donation of $10.00.