Shimna Higgins & Gary Óg Duffy
Shim & Gary are a guitar and fiddle duo raised on opposite sides of the planet, Shim from Auckland, New Zealand, and Gary from Belfast, Northern Ireland, yet united through the vibrant trad scene that thrives in Belfast. What began as a musical connection quickly evolved into a dynamic partnership defined by contrast, chemistry, and creative risk-taking.
Gary’s guitar style brings a powerful blend of modern and contemporary backing, shaped by the influence of Arty McGlynn. Shim’s fiddle playing is charismatically rogue; weaving threads of Liz Carroll, Martin Hayes, and Eileen Ivers into a sound that’s both grounded in tradition and alive with individuality.
Both musicians carry deep musical roots shaped by their fathers, bridging generations and geographies through their shared love of traditional music.
Together, Shim & Gary create a dynamic blend of fun, raw energy and soothing gentleness, an unconventional approach to familiar tunes and rhythms. Their performances are a journey: spontaneous, emotional, and deeply connected. Endlessly inspired by each other’s playing, they bounce off one another in real time, drawing the audience into the flow of their shared musical adventure.
