Are you a saver or a spender?
It depends on whether I’m on tour or not, or what I’m doing day to day. If I’m at home, I’m saving; if I’m on tour, I tend to spend. I’ve only very recently got into the habit of saving, which I’m proud of. The feeling of putting a bit away is very fulfilling and satisfying, so I’ve definitely tried to watch my spending and save more.
What was the first job you ever received money for, and how much were you paid?
I started teaching fiddle when I was 16 or 17, and that gave me a bit of pocket money and experience. When I was extremely young and reluctant to practice, my dad gave me a few music books and told me he’d pay me €1 per jig and €2 per reel if I learnt them by heart. I racked up a serious bill with him, but I am eternally grateful for the inspiration he gave me.
Do you shop around for better value?
I practically only buy things on sale, and thanks to my mam, I always shop around for a bargain.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever, and how much did it cost?
My fiddle. The beauty of a good instrument is that the value will increase with the years. Compared with other instruments, my fiddle wasn’t extremely expensive, but it’s all down to the owner’s value of it.
RM Block
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
My fiddle, again. It has been essential for my career and was worth every penny. And even aside from my career, the emotional fulfilment that a good instrument can give you is worth its weight in gold.
Is there anything you regret spending money on?
I once paid €200 on an outfit for playing shows. I loved it at the time of purchase, but after its first outing on stage, I sent it to the nearest charity shop. At least someone else took pleasure from it.
[ Lisa Canny on Biird: ‘Irish people are looking for something more authentic’Opens in new window ]
Do you haggle over prices?
If I were in a market, I might try to but it depends on what I’m buying. If I were buying something handmade from the maker, I definitely wouldn’t haggle.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrencies?
I think shares are a much more effective way of dealing with your savings, but not at the moment. I really need to think about it, though.
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
This is something else I have to start thinking about! I have been saying to myself for a while that even trying to put €20 a week away for my retirement would be a good thing. Maybe it can be a New Year’s resolution for 2026?
What was the last thing you bought, and was it good value for money?
I’ve been buying all of my clothes on Vinted recently and find it amazing value and just lovely to buy second-hand, sustainable clothes. I find getting a good deal on vintage clothes very satisfying, more so than if it were a new garment.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
No, not yet. I save, but not with certain things in mind. Because I live in Dublin, I don’t even own a car because I don’t need one. I am aware of the housing crisis, and I hope some day to own a property of my own, but that will take a lot of savings.
[ Eleanor McEvoy: ‘In the crash I lost most of my pension’Opens in new window ]
Have you ever lost money?
I am very diligent when it comes to my finances, and I don’t carry cash, which means I don’t lose it. I also carefully consider what I spend, and so far, it’s so good.
Are you a gambler, and if so, have you ever had a big win?
It’s not something I’m interested in, as I would be reluctant to waste my hard-earned money. While not money-related, life as a musician can be a gamble, but if it’s a risk, then it’s the best one I’ve made!
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
I’d say I’m a bit careless with it at times, which I think is equally good and bad. It’s important not to let it rule your life. There have been multiple times when I’ve been fairly skint and have had to get by on a stricter budget. I think money comes and goes very easily, so trying to adapt in the hard times is crucial.
How much money do you have on you now?
I don’t really carry cash any more; like most people my age, I have my cards on my phone. When I am on tour with Celtic Woman, I always get a small bit of local currency, just in case I’m ever stuck.
