Dervish to perform Ireland’s entry for Eurovision 2007

Critically lauded, Dervish have played all over the world, sharing centre-stage with some of the world’s most respected artists, including James Brown, The Buena Vista Social Club, Oasis, Sting, REM and Beck.
The announcement was made today by RTE. Last year’s Eurovision entry, ‘Every Song Is A Cry Of Love’ was sung by Brian Kennedy, and finished in 11th place. Although deeply devoted to traditional Irish music, Dervish have always pushed the boundaries and are widely respected for their innovative approach to the arrangement of traditional Irish songs in both English and Irish. Having represented Ireland at festivals throughout the world, earlier this year they accompanied the Irish government on its trade mission to China. 
Possessing one of the tightest and most inventive rhythm sections on the circuit today, the Sligo-based sextet are famous for their high energy performance style, at times wild and swirling, at times deep and spiritual. But they are also noted for their interpretation of a wide range of modern songs. This broad musical ethic means that Eurosong 2007 will offer prospective songwriters a unique opportunity to write in a wide range of genres, with Cathy Jordan's warm, strong and versatile voice to the fore.
“Dervish are one of the most of the most respected ambassadors of Irish music,” Kevin Linehan, Commissioning Editor, Entertainment Programmes, RTÉ Television commented. “They have enthralled audiences around the world with their innovative approach to Irish music. Ireland’s last Eurovision winner in 1998, ‘The Voice’, was a traditionally inspired composition, and the recent history of the competition has seen ethnic song styles figure prominently.
“With the Eurovision now an increasingly complex and competitive competition, RTÉ feels that Dervish’s proven experience of delivering exciting performances to mass live audiences around the world makes them an exciting proposition for the Eurovision stage. We look forward to finding the best song for Dervish to take to Finland in 2007.”
“We are honoured to accept RTRs invitation to represent Ireland at Eurovision 2007 and look forward to raising the roof of the ‘Areena’ in Helsinki,” Shane Mitchell of Dervish added.
RTÉ are inviting songwriters to submit compositions of maximum 3 minutes duration. All interested would-be and established songwriters are eligible to take part. Submissions must be in by 5.30pm on Monday 8 January, 2007. *(See below for more information)
Two preliminary judging panels, each containing five members and composed of members of previous standby Eurovision juries will initially listen to all entries and devise a shortlist for consideration by the Final Judging Panel. The Final Judging Panel will be made up by former Eurovision winner Shay Healy; MD of Universal Music Ireland Dave Pennefather; Publisher and IMRO Board Member Johnny Lappin; Eurovision Commentator and Broadcaster Larry Gogan and singer Eleanor Shanley. The final four songs will be performed by Dervish in a Late Late Show Eurosong Special in February, when the public will vote for the song to represent Ireland in Eurovision 2007.

Dervish’s complete line-up is as follows:
Cathy Jordan: Vocals and bodhrán
Brian McDonagh: Mandola
Liam Kelly: Flute and whistles
Tom Morrow: Fiddle
Shane Mitchell: Accordion
Michael Holmes: Bouzouki

* Submission of Song Entries
• All songs must be submitted on CD and be accompanied by six copies of the song lyrics.
• Lyrics only will not be accepted. 
• 3 minutes is the maximum duration permitted.
• One song may be entered by each composer, including co writes.
• The song (lyrics and music) must be original, written solely by the songwriter(s), and must not ever have been commercially released or publicly performed.
• Songs submitted in previous years of this competition are eligible subject to compliance with the other rules.

Submissions to be sent to:
Eurosong 2007
Entertainment Department
RTÉ Television
Donnybrook
Dublin 4

          
Deadline: songs must be submitted by 5.30pm on Monday 8 January, 2007.