‘People thought I was mad to leave the bank to become a musician but I stuck at what I loved.’

What's the most important lesson about money which your career as a musician has taught you?

Relax and don't panic. When I look back at my financial situation, it all worked out fine, but when I'm in the moment, I'm inclined to worry about the future. 

What has the coronavirus crisis taught you about money?

It has taught me about the illusory aspect of money. During the pandemic, the Government could suddenly call up money to cover the Covid payments. In 2008, we also learned about the illusory aspect of money ––as banks were lending money they didn't have and we suddenly conjured up billions from taxpayers' pockets to bail out the banks.

Your favourite song about money?

Money by Pink Floyd. 

Your favourite saying about money?

'Mura bhfuil agat ach pocán gabhair, bí i lár an aonaigh leis'. It means that if you've only got a buck goat, be in the middle of fair with it – that is, make the most of what you've got.

What's the most expensive country you ever visited?

The Scandinavian countries. I've played in about 40 countries. I went to Norway with my daughter once and it was very expensive.

What's the most you've ever spent on musicial equipment?

I don't have huge outgoings on musical equipment. I have two Spanish guitars. My favourite guitar only cost €300 but that same guitar cost £1000 when it was a new guitar in 1970. I bought a concertina for €800 – you could spend €5,000 on a concertina. 

What's your favourite Irish coin?

I used to love the old one penny coin with the hen and the chickens. 

What was your worst job?

I enjoyed all the jobs I've had. I worked in a bank for two years and I enjoyed it, but I was sure to leave at the age of 20 because I felt that if I didn't leave then, I never would. People thought I was mad to leave the bank to become a musician but I have deliberately stuck at doing what I love.

What was your biggest financial mistake?

I've come across some rare and beautiful books about Irish language, history and culture which I should have bought – and which would have proved very valuable.

What was your best financial killing?

Writing The Dance of the Cherry Trees. When the cherry blossoms come out in March and April, that song starts to be played on the radio — and I get the royalties. It's like my Fairytale of New York.

If you won the Euromillions, what would you do with the money?

I'd like to help the poor – and in a sustained way, rather than to just throw money at them. I'd like to plant a forest too.

What's the best advice you ever got about money?

Don't ever tell anyone what you earn. I got that advice from my mum. Another good piece of advice I got from her was that with patience and perseverance, you can bring a donkey from Kinsale to Jerusalem.

Would you buy Irish property now?

No. I'm happy where I am on the banks of the river Lee – and I don't need another property.

What three things would you not be able to do without if you were tightening your belt?

A dog. A bag of potatoes. A bottle of wine.

Online Editors