Gerry Hanley in Concert

“A master of his craft, his instrument, and the tradition.”

The United Irish Cultural Center is delighted to welcome renowned Galway button accordion player Gerry Hanley for a special evening of traditional Irish music, joined by acclaimed guitarist Kyle Alden.

Rooted in the rich musical heritage of East Galway, Gerry Hanley is widely respected for his powerful, rhythmic, and deeply expressive accordion style. His playing reflects decades spent “in the middle of it”—immersed in sessions, fleadhs, festivals, and concerts across Ireland and internationally. Whether driving a set of reels or shaping a lyrical air, Hanley’s music carries lift, character, and a profound understanding of the tradition.

In 1977, Gerry was crowned All-Ireland Senior Button Accordion Champion at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, and in 1980 he toured North America with the National Touring Company of Ireland, alongside legendary musicians including Joe Burke, under the auspices of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. His career also includes early work in Irish-language film, notably Bob Quinn’s groundbreaking Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoire (1975).

In August 2025, Gerry released his debut solo album, In the Middle of It, a celebrated collection of traditional tunes that showcases his mature, confident style. The album features accompaniment from Carl Hession (keyboard), Máirín Fahy (fiddle), and Eimear Coughlan (harp), and has been praised for its lift, musicality, and deep respect for the tradition.

For this special UICC concert, Gerry is joined by Kyle Alden on guitar, a sensitive and dynamic accompanist whose playing complements Hanley’s driving box style with elegance and energy.

This promises to be an intimate and exhilarating night of world-class Irish traditional music in one of San Francisco’s most beloved cultural venues.