For the better part of the past two decades, Martin has lived in the United States, for many years in Chicago and now in Seattle. In his music, Martin has drawn upon American traditions, notably jazz, blending them into a traditional Irish style notable for its soulfulness, its purity, its easefulness, and its impassioned intricacy. It stirs things within me which I am then compelled to express through that very tune itself Irish music contains the inspiration and dreams of generations past and present. The tunes are the seeds of this great collective. Each time they are played they come alive in the fertile ground of our souls.
Music is a language that gives voice to otherwise inexpressible feelings.
For me it is defined by the messages and feelings it conveys. Martin Hayes has contributed greatly to the rich history of Irish music in America and this Society is proud to recognize that contribution. He is also the Director of Tropical Disease Center, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City. For the last 31 years, he has been Professor and Chairman, Department of International Health and Tropical Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland. He is also the President General of the American Irish Historical Society for over 20 years.