# Event Details

- **Event Name**: Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE
- **Event Start and End Date**: Fri, 09 Oct, 2026 at 07:30 pm (+01:00)
- **Event Description**: Damien O’Kane & Ron Block Band

Banjo Besties – UK & Ireland Tour | October 2026
Ground-breaking. Innovative. Unmissable.

This October, two of the most influential banjo players in modern acoustic music unite for a landmark tour across the UK and Ireland - and they land in Derry on October 9th. The Banjo Besties Tour brings together Damien O’Kane and Ron Block with their band — artists whose work has redefined the possibilities of the banjo within their respective traditions.
Melding bluegrass and Irish traditions, and Americana, this is a collaboration that pushes boundaries while honouring deep musical heritage. Expect exhilarating musicianship, intricate interplay, and a live performance that is as emotionally powerful as it is technically stunning.

Both Damien and Ron are not only masters of their instruments, but also exceptional vocalists — each bringing a distinctive voice shaped by their own rich traditions. From soaring harmonies to intimate, heartfelt delivery, their singing adds a powerful new dimension to an already compelling musical partnership.
Damien O’Kane’s ground-breaking approach to Irish folk and traditional music and of course his leading role with Kate Rusby and her band meets Ron Block’s unmistakable sound — honed through decades at the forefront of American bluegrass, including his work with Alison Krauss & Union Station. Together, they create something truly innovative: a seamless blend of styles that feels both timeless and strikingly new. NOT duelling banjos, much more co-operating banjos!

Having already captivated audiences at many venues and some of the UK’s most prestigious festivals — including Celtic Connections, HebCelt and Cambridge Folk Festival — the band brings a proven track record of unforgettable live performances to this highly anticipated tour.

Supported by a stellar band of world-class musicians, the Banjo Brothers Tour is more than a concert — it’s a bold and inspiring celebration of creativity, collaboration, musical excellence and craic.

Whether you’re a devoted fan of roots music or discovering it for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to witness two pioneers sharing one stage.

‘Two of the greatest exponents of the banjo, blending traditions with a truly distinctive voice.’ – The Irish World

‘Exquisite musicianship’ – Ralph McTell

“Excellent, deeply musical, and refreshingly original — a meeting of traditions that feels truly new.” - The Irish Echo
- **Event URL**: https://allevents.in/derry/damien-okane-and-ron-block-band-derry-new-gate-arts-and-cultural-centre/200030396306046
- **Event Categories**: music, entertainment, festivals, workshops, live-music, concerts, meetups, art
- **Interested Audience**: 
  - total_interested_count: 4

## Ticket Details


## Event venue details

- **city**: Derry
- **state**: NI
- **country**: United Kingdom
- **location**: New Gate Arts and Culture Centre
- **lat**: 54.99357
- **long**: -7.32211
- **full address**: New Gate Arts and Culture Centre, 2-4 Kennedy Place, Derry, United Kingdom

## Event gallery

- **Alt text**: Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE
  - **Image URL**: https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events6/banners/f2246d68ef136eb198a95ff54d536d69487a1490bf7f1ba0be0f208e2fca2a44-rimg-w1200-h628-dc080808-gmir?v=1788197125

## FAQs

- **Q**: When and where is Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE being held?
  - **A:** Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE takes place on Fri, 09 Oct, 2026 at 07:30 pm to Fri, 09 Oct, 2026 at 07:30 pm at New Gate Arts and Culture Centre, 2-4 Kennedy Place, Derry, United Kingdom.
- **Q**: Who is organizing Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE?
  - **A:** Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE is organized by Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band.
- **Q**: Who is this event for? Is it right for me?
  - **A:** Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE is ideal for music lovers, fans of all genres, and anyone who wants to celebrate the power of music - from intimate gigs and live sessions to festivals and cultural performances. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a longtime enthusiast in Derry, this event is thoughtfully curated to deliver a standout experience worth every moment. If Damien O'Kane & Ron Block Band - DERRY, NEW GATE ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE sounds like your kind of event, don't wait - spots fill up fast.

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