Paddy Keenan loves his work as a musician not only because he gets to perform, but because he has the opportunity to travel around the world.

“I prefer sometimes not having to play for money, but then when you set yourself up with a tour you have to finish it,” the uilleann pipes performer said.

Keenan will perform tonight at the Creole Gallery, 1218 Turner St. in Lansing with Tommy O’Sullivan.

The uilleann pipes, Ireland’s version of the bagpipes, differ from the Scottish version because they are played sitting down and air is blown through a bellows by the elbow rather than by the mouth.

Keenan said even though sometimes his tours are extremely demanding, he doesn’t mind being on the road.

“This tour I’m on now started Sept. 22, and it’s going on until Nov. 2,” he said. “Obviously you’ll have times when you’re tired and you want to take a break, but aside from that I like this work.”

The 51-year-old said he hopes to continue performing music for at least the next couple of years, but has no idea what the future holds for his career.

“Even if I do stop, you never really stop,” he said. “It will always be there.”

He said the addition of O’Sullivan makes things a bit easier on him during live performances.

“I have done solo performances in the past and it gets difficult when you’re on your own traveling and playing,” he said. “Having him is a nice break from flutes and whistles and that kind of stuff.”

Keenan said the bonus of performing is being able to express himself with his music.

“It’s nice to be able to walk on stage and do my thing with Tommy and see all those happy faces down there screaming for more,” he said.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $13 at the door. Student prices are available at the door only. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at For more information, call (517)487-9549.