Tom Cussen

Tom Cussen, plays tenor banjo and mandolin, originally from County Limerick, now a long time resident of Galway. Tom spent many years in London and founded the band Shaskeen there in 1970, who have recorded 10 albums to date.

As well as being Shaskeen’s band leader, Tom is the maker of the renowned Clareen banjos (www.banjo.ie). Since his semi-retirement, Tom’s son, Fintan is now in charge of the business. Tom and Tony Howley (RIP) recorded an album together called There is Always Room in Our House featuring banjo and saxophone.

Tom has recently released an album of archive recordings of fiddler Maureen Minogue-Brown from Galway, who spent many years playing music in London and was a huge influence on Tom’s playing.

Tom’s Banjo Maintenance workshop covers a wide range of topics, including Choosing a banjo, what to look for etc. Banjo set up to include choice of strings, banjo head tension, setting action, setting intonation , bridge position etc, plectrum styles and use, getting the best tone, and many more tips. A few tunes to finish .