About David Healy
How ya? My name is David Healy. I play the button accordion and I’ve been involved in Irish traditional music most of my life. I was born in Quincy, Massachusetts, but when I was seven, my family moved back to Abbeyfeale, County Limerick — and that’s where my musical journey began.
I started learning music when I was nine, surrounded by the rich tradition of the Sliabh Luachra region. It’s a place known for its unique style — the polkas, slides, and expressive reels — and those tunes have always stayed with me.
Over the years, I’ve been lucky to play with some brilliant groups and shows like Celtic Legends, Rhythm of the Dance, Siamsa Tíre, Celtic Steps, Gaelforce Dance, Celtic Gold and a few others. Performing has taken me to over 25 countries, which still feels a bit surreal. But no matter where I’ve been, it’s always been about the music — and the people it brings together.
Teaching has also been a big part of what I do. I started when I was 18, working in primary schools back in Ireland, and it’s grown from there. I’ve taught at summer schools, Comhaltas branches, and festivals, and I’ve had the chance to work with students of all levels. I get a lot of joy out of helping someone find their way into the music, whether they’re just starting out or looking to deepen their style.
In 2021, I moved back to the U.S. and settled in Boston. The trad scene here is really welcoming, and I’ve been fortunate to play in places like The Burren , The Dubliner ,The Black Rose, Emmet’s, Scobie’s, and of course the Irish Cultural Centre. It’s a great community, and I’m proud to be part of it. I feel I could probably say now that I've nearly played as many Jigs, Reels and Polkas in Boston as I have in the bars across the south west of Ireland, in Dingle, Killarney & Abbeyfeale in my teenage years and early twenties!
Now I’m putting out my first album — it’s called Down South. The name was chosen because not only because I recorded this album in Nashville, but also, when people ask me where I'm from in Ireland my first response is usually 'Down South'. It’s a mix of tunes that reflect where I’ve come from and where I am now. It’s not flashy or overly polished — just honest music that means a lot to me. It’s a bit of a thank-you to the places, the people, and the music that have shaped my life so far.