Irish Tenors Biography

The Irish Tenors made their stunning debut in March 1999 with a PBS broadcast of their concert, captivating audiences with their powerful performances. Conceived by Daniel Harte and Bill Hughes, the group was inspired by the legendary Three Tenors—Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, and Jose Carreras—after Harte and Hughes attended one of their performances at the Cannes Festival. Drawing on their vision, they assembled a trio that would highlight the rich vocal traditions of Ireland.

Initially, the Irish Tenors featured Anthony Kearns, John McDermott, and Ronan Tynan, each bringing an impressive array of talents and experiences to the group. Tynan, who has achieved success in various European vocal competitions, also showcased his remarkable resilience as an equestrian champion despite having two prosthetic legs. McDermott's rise to fame began serendipitously when a record label executive discovered a recording of him performing at his parents' wedding anniversary celebration. Kearns has a rich background in musical theater, having toured with the English Light Opera Company.

In 2000, the lineup changed when Finbar Wright replaced McDermott, and in 2006, Karl Scully stepped in for Ronan Tynan for a six-year tenure. During this time, the Irish Tenors enjoyed tremendous success, releasing a total of nine studio albums, including The Irish Tenors – Live in Dublin (1999), Live in Belfast (2000), and Ellis Island (2001). Their renditions of beloved Irish classics resonated with fans, solidifying their reputation as ambassadors of Irish music. The group also produced several concert videos, including Heritage (2004) and The Irish Tenors & Friends (2006), showcasing their powerful performances and collaborations with renowned artists.

The 2005 album Sacred marked the return of McDermott to the group alongside Kearns and Wright, just as Tynan pursued a solo career. Following a successful collaboration, Scully joined the trio in 2006, which led to an even more dynamic and harmonious blend of their voices. The Irish Tenors' popularity surged as they presented a nine-part television series for Ireland's RTÉ titled The Irish Tenors & Friends, featuring performances with notable guests such as Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Celine Byrne, and Hayley Westenra.

In 2007, the South Carolina Legislature honored the trio with a "Proclamation," officially welcoming them to Charleston during a performance, further exemplifying their growing influence. Scully remained a member until Tynan's triumphant return to the group in 2012. The current lineup of Kearns, Tynan, and Wright continues to enchant audiences, performing two major tours each year, typically around St. Patrick's Day and Christmas.