Lancaster Music Festival 2024: Interview with Paddy Rogan

27 November 2024

Emily joined Paddy Rogan at the Gregson in Lancaster to talk about all things Lancaster Music Festival, his career as a Folk artist, and his connection to the Gregson.

Emily:

Today I am talking to Paddy, who has done a lot for the Gregson as well as the Lancaster Music Festival. Can you tell me more about your involvement?

Paddy:

I am a musician playing a mix of Folk and Blues, focusing on traditional material. I have been quite busy at the music festival helping with the other acts and setting up. I have done gigs in the past at the Lancaster Music Festival, and the Gregson itself has become an integral part of the festival, with acts happening on all the stages across the city. It is brilliant to see the community engagement at the Gregson as well.

Emily:

It is great to hear about the community aspect of the festival and how it brings together so many different artists. How did you discover your passion for Folk music, and what made you decide to pursue it?

Paddy:

I guess being in my teens was a critical time for music, like it is for most people. There was something about the integrity and realism of Folk music, how undiluted and connected it was to an older source. That is what appealed to me during those years. I think we are all searching for something to identify with, and for me, the idea of connecting with something so old had a kind of geeky appeal, you know? My dad also influenced me—he was into traditional Irish and Scottish music. But for me, it was the resonance of the music that stuck. With Folk music, there’s always room for interpretation. You can put something of yourself into it.

Emily:

Have you felt inspired by other artists at the Lancaster Music Festival, and has their work influenced the way you write?

Paddy:

Definitely. With any musician or artist, a huge part of the journey is being inspired by others, whether they are doing something like you or something completely different. For me, as a spectator, I have really enjoyed watching performances at the Velodrome stage. It is a longstanding part of the festival and has a carnival-themed pop-up design. They do an excellent job blending entertainment with thought-provoking performances. It is not just music; there are also performance pieces and circus acts. The Velodrome is a place where I go to be reminded that music is connected to so many other forms of expression.

Emily:

I would like to ask about your connection to the Gregson. It is my first time here today, and I have heard about the challenges the community has faced. What is your perspective on your journey with the Gregson?

Paddy:

I first came to the Gregson about ten years ago, and it was music that brought me here. I came along to play with other musicians and was at once struck by the vibe of the place. There is a wonderful feel here — welcoming, friendly, and a place that encourages you to be yourself. I think that is what people respond to when they come in. You do not have to fit in; you can just be you. I ended up spending fifteen months as a supervisor here, partly because I felt like I was contributing to the community. As for the busyness you mentioned, you look after each other here. That is part of the spirit.

Emily:

I love that you have emphasized how the Gregson allows people to be themselves. Is there any advice you would give to your younger self or to someone who is aspiring to become a musician?

Paddy:

The most important thing is to be kind to yourself. Give yourself time to figure out what you want to do. Do not rush or jump into something because you feel pressured. Take the time to understand yourself and what makes you happy—that’s when things will start to fall into place. Also, remember we are all here to make the world a better place. Find people who share that belief and work together. We are all just humans, after all.

Emily:

One last question: Are there any upcoming events at the Gregson or festivals you will be part of?

Paddy:

I am not performing live as much as I used to, but I would not want to single out any one event because there is always so much going on at the Gregson. Whether you are into salsa dancing, cinema, poetry, or Folk music, there is something for everyone here. If you are interested in chess or crafting, you will find that too. It is a friendly place, so I would encourage people to come along and see for themselves.

Emily:

Thank you for your time today, Paddy. I have really enjoyed our conversation.

Paddy:

It has been a pleasure.

Interested in what the Gregson has to offer? Check out their website: https://gregson.co.uk. The Gregson Community Centre is found at 33 Moorgate in Lancaster. Want to learn more about the Lancaster Music Festival? Visit their website for more details: https://lancastermusicfestival.com.

― Emily

Written by: Bailrigg FM