River Daughter is an emerging jazz trio comprising three recent graduates of DCU’s Jazz & Contemporary Music course. Each of these musicians has years of experience playing in various jazz groups throughout Ireland, including projects of their own.
These three musicians have a variety of influences, but what unifies them is a willingness to explore what can be done with different musical setups. Vocals, sax and guitar may not be an unusual combo, but River Daughter draws more influence from the recordings of the Jimmy Giuffre 3, or John Zorn’s ‘News for Lulu’ trio, records in which the musical function of each instrument was never set in stone, and something new and surprising was always ready to fill in the space left by the absence of a rhythm section. With this ‘less is more’ philosophy, this trio aims to create a more intimate atmosphere during concerts, while still retaining the rhythmic energy of a traditional quartet or quintet.
The combination of Rufina’s lyricism, Emily’s focused and distinct playing and Rory’s rhythm and tone creates a unique blend. The group’s repertoire includes a variety of standards and compositions from artists such as Bill Evans, Ornette Coleman, Emily Remler and more, all arranged for this unique lineup.
The Moat Theatre includes a 200 seater auditorium and stage with retractable seating and a fly tower, two rehearsal rooms, male and female dressing rooms and a foyer/coffee shop and bar area.The flexibility of design of the spaces inside allows for multiple use of the various spaces in the building. The Moat Theatre development secured generous funding from the Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism and Naas Town Council.