Larry McKee and The Shandonairs were formed in 1968.  They were the first Irish dance band outside of Ireland to record music for Irish Dancers in addition to ceili dancing music.  During the 60's, 70's and 80's, many people were emigrating from Ireland to major North American cities like New York, Chicago, Boston and Toronto, and were attending dances and social events as social pastimes.  This band was a main fixture at various Irish cultural events during this time period across North America.

In the early 1970's, Larry McKee met Paddy and Mae Butler, and quickly became the resident accordian musician for the Butler Academy of Dancing in Toronto up to 1982.  As a result Larry became one of the most popular Irish dance competition musicians in North America during this time period on the feis circuit, when most major competitions were in the US.  Many of the over 12 albums that Larry McKee and The Shandonairs recorded during this time period have music specific to Irish Dancing at the beginner, intermediate, advanced and team dancing level.

In 1982, The Shandonairs retired from active music recording so the members could spend more time with their young families.  The Shandonair's Maple Leaf Belt was sponsored by The Shandonairs as a way to preserve a growing Irish Dancing culture in Canada.

Larry McKee presented the award for almost 20 years until his sudden passing in 2001.  We are honoured to continue the family connection as Ryan McKee now presents the award each year.