Harp Ireland

Gradaim Nós 2024
2024-02-09 19:30 - 21:00 (Europe/Dublin)
Beidh mór-ócáid bhronnta agus ceolchoirm Ghradaim NÓS ar siúl ar an Aoine, 9ú Feabhra i mBéal Feirste. Comhghairdeas ó chroí leis na cruitirí atá ainmnithe i mbliana:

Albam na Bliana (Amhráin Thraidisiúnta)

Anamnesis – Síle Denvir
Séamus agus Caoimhe – Séamus agus Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta

Físeán na Bliana

Eileanóir a Rún – Síle Denvir

Físeán na Bliana

Anamnesis – Síle Denvir

Nuatheachtaí na Bliana – Gradam Rónáin Mhic Aodha Bhuí

Bláth na hÓige

Banna / Ceoltóir na Bliana

Séamus agus Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta
Síle Denvir

DCU Lunchtime Concert Series: Síle Denvir & Barry Kerr
2024-02-14 13:00 - 14:00 | DCU, DCU St Patrick's Campus, Dublin, Dublin, D09 YT18, Ireland
DCU St Patrick’s Campus (Room B118), Drumcondra Road, Dublin 9, D09 YT18
1.10-1.50pm | Free admission | No booking required
BARRY KERR and SÍLE DENVIR are two widely celebrated musicians and together they make a compelling duet, creating music that communicates the beauty of a living tradition. Their repertoire is a sympathetic merging of both traditional and original material, ranging from Síle’s ancient sean-nós songs to Barry’s self-composed modern folk tales. Their instrumental music on uilleann pipes, flute and harp is underpinned by subtle and inventive motif based arrangements. Originally from the southern shores of Lough Neagh, multi-instrumentalist, composer, songwriter, and visual artist Barry is one of Ireland’s most accomplished artists. A master on both uilleann pipes and flute, his recent work has explored the concept of relating musical performance and composition with visual art. Barry was the recipient of the Liam O’Flynn Award in 2020 and was the traditional musician in residence at UCC in 2023. Síle is a harpist and sean-nós singer who is deeply influenced by her upbringing in the Connemara Gaeltacht where she was surrounded by music and song from an early age. Síle has a deep passion for Irish language song, and through her work as an academic at Dublin City University she has honed her knowledge of this song tradition to the highest level, giving her performances an extra layer of depth and understanding. Síle was named Amhránaí na Bliana (singer of the year) in the prestigious TG4 Gradam Ceoil in 2023 and her most recent album Anamnesis, a recording of sean-nós songs in collaboration with producer John Reynolds and cellist Caroline Dale, was also released in 2023.

Lunchtime Concert: Megan O’Neill & Teresa O’Donnell
2024-02-15 13:00 - 14:00 | O’Donoghue Theatre, University of Galway, Cappa Villa, University Road, Galway, Galway, H91 T8WR, Ireland
In association with Arts in Action, University of Galway
Megan O’Neill, soprano
Teresa O’Donnell, harp
Songs by Schumann, Ravel and Britten performed by the winner of the 2022 RDS Music Bursary alongside concert harpist Teresa O’Donnell
THE LUNCHTIME SERIES IS SUPPORTED BY SAP
TICKETS
Although these concerts are free, it is advisable to register to avoid disappointment.
Please note that registration for this event will open approximately 7 days before the concert date.
More information here.

Belfast TradFest Winter Weekend
2024-02-23 - 2024-02-25 | Belfast
Belfast TradFest Winter Weekend: 23-25th February 2024

Belfast will come alive to the sounds of traditional music once again with concerts, workshops, sessions, and talks during the Belfast TradFest 3rd annual Winter Weekend, throughout Belfast UNESCO City of Music. Taking place 23rd – 25th February and supported by Belfast City Council, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Ulster University and Dunville’s Irish Whiskey, the festival programme is filled with internationally renowned talent in traditional Irish and Scottish music, song and dance.
For the opening concert, Donegal songstress Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh brings her fantastic band Altan back to Belfast to play the stunning Empire Music Hall on Friday 23rd February. Also on the bill that evening, Monaghan Harp maestro Michael Rooney plays a rare solo set in the city famed for its Harp Festival of 1792.
Longtime Tyrone resident, fiddler Bríd Harper is being celebrated with a family friendly concert on Saturday 24th February in the Mandela Hall, featuring the cream of traditional musicians and singers such as Australian guitarist Steve Cooney, Donegal accordion wizard Dermot Byrne, Breton flute player Sylvain Barou, singer Rita Gallagher and many more.
The Songs of Shane MacGowan will be celebrated and performed by a selection of some of our finest singers featuring Andrew Hendy & Finnian O’Connor (of The Mary Wallopers), Monaghan songstress Dani Larkin, Lough Neagh singer Niall Hanna, Belfast’s own Duke Special, Crossmaglen rising star Piaras Ó Lorcáin, County Derry’s Jack Warnock and Castlewellan native Múlú. Connecting the sound and spirit of punk with his traditional Irish roots, MacGowan created one of the most distinctive sounds of the past 40 years and Belfast TradFest are delighted to present these songs with some of Ulster and Ireland’s finest traditional, folk and contemporary singers.
Other highlights feature concerts with Ciarán & Caitlín, Mick O’Brien and Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh and a full programme of Festival Club events with acts such as Sligo’s Niamh Farrell, Jos Kelly and Cillian Doheny.
Belfast TradFest Winter Weekend is delighted to host its annual Highland Piping Solo Competition at The Deer’s Head, Sunday 25th February. A selection of Ireland’s top pipers will compete for a place in the renowned MacCrimmon Trophy Competition 2024 that takes place annually at the Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Brittany.
The fantastic new Ulster University building on York Street will host workshops covering all instruments from bodhrán to banjo and smallpipes to singing. Delivered by some of the best traditional musicians from Ireland, Scotland and beyond. Beginners can also join in the fun with classes in Traditional Singing, Sean Nós Singing (unaccompanied singing in Irish) with Róisín Chambers & Gráinne Holland, whistle and sing (Ages 5 plus), Sean Nós Dancing with legendary Conamara dancer Seosamh Ó Neachtáin and set dancing with Ulster’s own Mary Fox.
The festival’s afternoon events will include album launches and a talk by Rev. Gary Hastings – ‘Lambeg Drum and Fife. Traditional Music of Ulster.’ Recently retired as a Rector in the Church of Ireland, Gary’s musical background takes in the traditions of Fermanagh, Donegal and Antrim, and he has written and lectured widely on the  Lambeg and fifing traditions associated with Orangeism.
Join the lively Dunville’s Irish Whiskey Session Trail which will take you across the city to some of Belfast’s oldest and best-loved pubs including Madden’s Bar, The Garrick, The John Hewitt, The Sunflower, The Duke of York and Hatfield House. Sessions are free, and times are staggered so that traditional music fans can fit in as much ‘ceol agus craic’ (music and fun) as possible.
The most influential Irish trad band of all time The Bothy Band are reforming and playing their first Irish concert since 1979, in Belfast’s Waterfront Hall ( sold out) on Sunday 25th February 2024. This concert will be one of the most anticipated in living memory, featuring a who’s who of Irish music; Matt Molloy (The Chieftains), Donal Lunny (Planxty, Moving Hearts), Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill (Skara Brae), Kevin Burke (Patrick Street), Paddy Glackin (Ushers Island) and uilleann pipe supremo Paddy Keenan.

Michael Rooney & Altan at Belfast TradFest
2024-02-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Empire Music Hall, 42 Botanic Avenue, Belfast, Belfast, BT7 1JQ, Ireland
Michael Rooney & Altan at Belfast TradFest
Friday 23rd February, 7pm
Empire Music Hall
Altan, a leading force in traditional Irish music for nearly 40 years, was founded by Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Frankie Kennedy in the early 1980s to be later joined by Daíthí Sproule (guitar), Ciaran Curran (bouzouki), Mark Kelly (guitar), Martin Tourish (accordion). Their music, ranging from energetic dance tunes to soulful songs, reflects the depth and richness of Irish heritage. Altan’s global popularity, having toured the world over, has earned them an Irish postal stamp and recognition from Donegal County Council.
With award-winning recordings and new member Clare Friel (fiddle), they continue to thrive and share their culture worldwide. Their traditional approach and integrity have earned praise from renowned sources, solidifying their status as Celtic music pioneers.
TG4 Composer of the Year 2017, Michael Rooney grew up in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan and now lives in Sligo where he has become part of the musical and cultural bedrock of the region. He is recognised as one of the most influential and innovative stylists on the harp, and his virtuosic technique as well as his approach to rhythm and harmony have helped to reposition it as a popular and integral part of the living tradition.
He is also established as a significant composer of music for small and large-scale ensembles & orchestras and has composed 17 suites of music in the past 20 years, including ‘The Ulster Suite’ (2022), ‘Clairseoireacht’ (2022), Constance (2020), The Famine Suite (2019), The Macalla Suite (2016), Boróimhe Suite (2014), The Second Coming (2014), De Cuellar Suite (2011) and Battle of the Books Suite (2007).

Harp Workshops with Michael Rooney at Belfast TradFest
2024-02-24 - 2024-02-25 | Ulster University Belfast, Belfast
Saturday 24th – Sunday 25th February 2024 | 2p – 4:30pm | Ulster University, York Street, BT15 1ED
Michael Rooney is a prolific composer and is widely regarded as one of the foremost players of the traditional Irish harp.

Michael was awarded the TG4 Composer of the Year in 2017. Originally from Scotstown, Co. Monaghan and now a long time resident of County Sligo, Michael has composed 17 suites of music in the past 20 years, including ‘
The Ulster Suite’ (2022), ‘Clairseoireacht’ (2022), Constance (2020), The Famine Suite (2019), The Macalla Suite (2016), Boróimhe Suite (2014), The Second Coming (2014), De Cuellar Suite (2011) and Battle of the Books Suite (2007).

All classes are designed for intermediate to advanced (minimum 2 years instrument experience) adults and children over 6 years of age, with the exception of Traditional Singing, Set Dancing, Sean Nós Dancing & Whistle & Sing, which are pitched at beginner level while also facilitating the more experienced.

Book your place here.

RTÉ Radio One Folk Awards
2024-02-27 20:00 - 22:00 | Vicar Street, Dublin, 55-59 Thomas Street, The Liberties, Dublin 8, Dublin, Ireland
Congratulations to the harpers nominated for this year’s RTÉ Radio One Folk Awards!
RTÉ has today announced the shortlist for the 6th RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards which will celebrate the very best in Irish folk music from the past year in Vicar Street, Dublin on Tuesday 27th February at 7.45pm and live on RTÉ Radio 1 from 8pm.
RTÉ moved the Awards from November 2023 to February 2024 to better reflect the full calendar year of folk music and performances and to continue to honour our wonderful folk artists and musicians.
Here is the shortlist for the 6th RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards:
BEST ORIGINAL FOLK TRACK

Abigail (Tomhas Ghobnatan) – Emma Langford
Anáil na hOíche – Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin
Glory Days – Steo Wall
Níl Aon Easpa Orm – Rónán Ó Snodaigh and Myles O’Reilly
Not Your Fight – The Henry Girls and Ríoghnach Connolly
Old Note – Lisa O’Neill

(2022 winner: Now You See It – Susan O’Neill)
BEST TRADITIONAL FOLK TRACK

Amhrán Pheadar Breathnach – Diane Cannon
Eileanóir a Rún – Síle Denvir
Eileanór na Rún – Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta
Go Dig My Grave – Lankum
Seán Gabha – Piaras Ó Lorcáin and Bláth na hÓige

(2022 winner: Róisín Dubh – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh and the Irish Chamber Orchestra)
BEST FOLK SINGER

Anna Mieke
Daoirí Farrell
Diane Cannon
Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin
Lisa O’Neill
Síle Denvir

(2022 winner: Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh)
BEST FOLK INSTRUMENTALIST

Aoife Ní Bhriain
Diarmuid Ó Meachair
Michael McGoldrick
Michelle Mulcahy
Sorcha Costello

(2022 winner – Cormac Begley)
BEST FOLK GROUP

Bláth na hÓige
Garadice
Lankum
Martin Hayes and the Common Ground Ensemble
The Mary Wallopers
ØXN

(2022 winner: the olllam)
BEST FOLK ALBUM

All Of This Is Chance – Lisa O’Neill
Bláth na hÓige – Bláth na hÓige
Double You – Aoife Ní Bhriain and Catrin Finch
False Lankum – Lankum
Look Over The Wall, See The Sky – John Francis Flynn

(2022 winner – Nine Waves – Ye Vagabonds (Pictured))
BEST EMERGING ARTIST

Cinder Well
Diarmuid Ó Meachair
Niamh Bury
Piaras Ó Lorcáin
Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta
Sorcha Costello

(2022 winner – Cathal Ó Curráin)
Tickets available here.

Bolero and Babies
2024-02-28 11:00 - 13:00 | Royal Irish Academy of Music, 36-38 Westland Row, Dublin 2,, Dublin 2, D02 WY89, Ireland
Bolero and Babies
Wednesday 28th February, 11am
Royal Irish Academy of Music
Bolero for Babies provides a space for parents/guardians with babies and/or small children to enjoy a concert of well-known classical music repertoire at a time that fits the new life schedule that accompanies new arrivals, when attending an evening concert clashes with bedtime routines and involves arranging babysitters. Babies and young children are free to make noise or even crawl around to explore this new environment to some extent!
€15 tickets include access for one adult and up to 2 children under 3 years.
Fanfare for St. Edmundsbury by Britten
Germans Almaine for 3 trumpets
Dutch Dance for 3 trumpets
Canon K328 Mozart
Apres un Reve Faure arr violin and harp
Entr’acte Ibert violin and harp
Une chatelaine in sa tour Faure
Sibelius Duo for Violin and viola
CPE Bach 3 trumpets and timpani
Bolero Ravel….. and more!
Performers:
Jack O’Reilly, trumpet
Aoife Garry, trumpet
Grace Taite, trumpet
Giulio Bryant, harp
Jasmin Gallagher, violin
Katie Ni Mhaolain, viola
Derek Fu, percussion

Marja Gaynor, Aoife Nic Athlaoich and Siobhán Armstrong @ Ortús Chamber Music Festival 2024
2024-03-03 11:00 - 13:00 | St. Peter’s Cork, Church Hill, Carrigrohane, Cork, T12 TX89, Ireland
Marja Gaynor, Aoife Nic Athlaoich and Siobhán Armstrong @ Ortús Chamber Music Festival 2024
Sunday 3rd March, 11am
St. Peter’s Cork
Siobhán Armstrong (baroque harp), Marja Gaynor (baroque violin) and Aoife Nic Athlaoich (baroque cello and 5 string piccolo cello)will perform a selection of 17th and 18th century works including:
William Byrd (c. 1540–1623) Callino Casturame
George Philipp Telemann (1681-1767) Fantasia No. 2 in D Major
Giovanni Battista Draghi (c. 1640–1708) Scocca pur
Sylvius Leopold Weiss (1687–1750) Chaconne in g minor
Dario Castello (1602 – 1631) Sonata Seconda
Francesco Rognoni Taeggio Divisions on “Susanne un jour’ (1620)
Thomas Tollett (c. 1630-1696) Tollett’s Ground (From Division-Flute)
Turlough Carolan (1670–1738) Pléaráca na Ruarcach with divisions by Lorenzo Bocchi (J & W Neal, A Collection of the Most Celebrated Irish Tunes, 1724)
Georg Friederich Händel (1685–1759) Let me wander not unseen
Tickets available here and are also available at Pro Musica, 20 Oliver Plunkett St, Centre, Cork, T12 AW84.

Launch of Harp Studies II: World Harp Traditions
2024-03-04 17:00 - 18:00 | Irish World Academy at the University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 NCF8, Ireland
Irish World Academy Special Event: Launch of Harp Studies II: World Harp Traditions
Monday 4th March, 5pm
Irish World Academy, Theatre 2
Helen Lawlor and Sandra Joyce, co-editors, are launching the 2nd
volume in the Harp Studies series, World Harp Traditions, on March
4th, 5pm, Tower Theatre, Irish World Academy building. The launch
will feature performances by a number of the contributors to both
volumes of Harp Studies, including Helen and Sandra, Paul Dooley,
Cormac De Barra, Niall Keegan, the Cuisle Harp Ensemble directed
by Fiana Ní Chonaill, and a host of other performers.
Published by Four Courts Press, Dublin, this book situates harping
activity as a vital aspect of music making in traditions around the
world. Contributors include Helen Lawlor (TU Dublin); Sandra
Joyce (UL); Niall Keegan (UL); Deirdre Nic Chárthaigh (MU); Helen
Davies (ind.); Lia Lonnert (Linnaeus U.); Mary Louise O’Donnell
(ind.); Cormac De Barra (DkIT); Catriona Cannon (NUIG); Tristan
Le Govic (Rennes 2 U.); Joshua Dickson (Royal Conservatoire
of Scotland); Paulla Ebron (Stanford U.); Rémy Jadinon (Royal
Museum for Central Africa); Sylvie Le Bomin (Sorbonne University) and Salomé Strauch
(Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle); Lucie Rault (Muséum national d’Histoire
naturelle); Haley Hodson (ind.); Benjamin Fairfield (University of
Hawai‘i at Manoa); Suwichan Phattanaphraiwan (Bodhivijjalaya
College); Susanne Fürniss (CNRS. The National Center for Scientific
Research); Lisbeth Ahlgren Jensen (ind.).
Helen Lawlor is a Lecturer in Music at TU Dublin. Sandra Joyce is
Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences,
UL.
Admission is free and all are welcome.

Finding a Voice presents: Amerghin – Wind on Sea
2024-03-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Main Guard, Clonmel, Sarsfield Street, Burgagery-Lands West, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
Finding a Voice presents: Amerghin – Wind on Sea
Sunday 10th March, 1pm
Main Guard, Clonmel
€8/€5

Amerghin: Wind on Sea
Anne Marie O Farrell (harp)
Aingeala De Búrca (violin)
Tim Doyle (whistles, pipes)
Brian Fleming (bodhrán, bones, percussion)
Between them they have played with artists from Led Zeppelin to the Chieftains, Elvis Costello, In Tua Nua, Riverdance, and Mamady Keita, and in concert, chamber and baroque orchestras around the world, on more than 150 albums, in more than 50 countries. They have played every style of venue and festival in Ireland from music bars to concert halls and stadia, and from fleadhs and baroque festivals to Electric Picnics. Their combined experience as professional musicians spans 150 years.
BOOK NOW
The four members of Amerghin combine that experience to create stunning new compositions and improvisations, which co-exist on their set list with music that is older than most nations. Whether it is music from the seventeenth century or new music being improvised into existence in front of your ears, Amerghin breathe new life into everything they play.
For Finding a Voice 2024, Amerghin perform music by Máire Breatnach, Irish American fiddler Liz Carroll, Italian baroque composer Isabella Leonarda, French baroque composer Elizabeth Claude Jacquet de la Guerre, West African kora player and composer Sona Jobarte, and composer and harpist Anne-Marie O’Farrell.
Song of Amergin (Irish mythology; date unknown)
“Am gáeth I mmuir ar domni
Am tond trethan i tír
Am fúaim na mara”
“I am the wind on the sea
I am the wave on the land
I am the sound of the sea”

The Singing Harps
2024-03-10 15:00 - 17:30 | LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre, Queen's Rd, Dún Laoghaire, Dublin, Ireland
The Singing Harps
Sunday 10th March 2024, 3pm
Dún Laoghaire Lexicon Library
Claire Roche will sing accompanied by harp, a compilation of well loved Irish songs, including ‘The Spinning Wheel’, ‘ Danny Boy’ etc.
Included in her programme will be a selection of W.B Yeats’s poems set to music .
She will also present some of her original songs with harp accompaniment: these were inspired by her childhood home, once a miniature farm .
Concert length 90 minutes with interval .Tea/ Coffee and biscuits served after performance .
Tickets available here.

Irish Harp Music of the 17th and 18th Centuries
2024-03-15 19:30 - 21:30 | Rathfarnham Castle, Dublin, D14 K3T6
Irish Harp Music of the 17th and 18th Centuries
Friday 15th March, 7.30pm
Rathfarnham Castle
This concert features some of Ireland’s leading musicians in Irish and Early Music, together recreating sounds from the Irish Baroque era.
Experience the beautiful and haunting music of Irish Harpers arranged from the original Irish and Scottish sources and played on historic and modern instruments: Irish Harp, Lute, Bandora, Baroque Guitar, Guitars, Susato Whistle, Viola da Gamba.
Musicians: Cormac Breatnach (whistles), Steve Cooney (guitars), Aisling Ennis (harp), Malachy Robinson (viola da gamba) Eamon Sweeney (lute, baroque guitar, bandora).
Booking essential. Tickets available here (€20)

Young Harpers' Gathering | Cruinniú na gCruitirí
2024-03-23 11:00 - 16:00 | An Grianán, Termonfechin, Louth
Young Harpers’ Gathering | Cruinniú na gCruitirí
Saturday 23rd March, 11-4pm
An Grianán, Termonfechin, Co. Louth
Do you want to get together with other harpers your age to learn tunes, tips on accompaniment and have some fun?
Join us for a harp-filled day of music-making and collaboration with other young harpers as part of our first ever Young Harpers’ Gathering, organised by CÉHI’s Fóram Cruite na nÓg.
Tickets are €20, and will include a two course lunch, harp workshops with a mystery guest harpers, a harpers’ session and lots of fun!
A limited number of tickets are available here.
Bígí linn!

Cuimhní Rúnda | Hidden Memories
2024-03-23 20:00 - 22:00 | Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, 24 Main Street, Limavady, Derry, BT49 0FJ, Ireland
Cuimhní Rúnda | Hidden Memories
Saturday 23rd March, 8pm
Roe Valley Arts Centre , Limavady
It’s as life-affirming as it is a lament for what’s lost and what’s hidden beyond our imagination..- Irish News
CUIMHNÍ RÚNDA | HIDDEN MEMORIES
Nodlaig Ní Bhrollaigh and guest musicians
Saturday 23 March | 8pm
Tickets: £15 full, £12 concession available here
It’s as life-affirming as it is a lament for what’s lost and what’s hidden beyond our imagination..- Robert McMillen, Irish News
Cuimhní rúnda celebrates the launch of new music and songs composed by local singer and musician, Nodlaig Ní Bhrollaigh.
It is a journey through the times and places that have inspired her music and reflects her classical and traditional training and influences. From the memories hidden in the depths of Lough Swilly to the strains of the ancient harp in the Roe Valley that echo in Gaelic Scotland, to the emigrants leaving their mark at the top of the Carn, to the artistic reimagining of Narnia at CS Lewis Square.
This compilation of original works hopes to enhance our understanding of place and heritage and entice the listener to visit and experience for themselves these places of scenic beauty, mystery and lore.
Nodlaig is joined by talented musicians from across the North West – Martin O’Kane (fiddle), Paul Gillespie (Cello/ Uileann pipes) Lasairfhíona Nic Ruairí (Fiddle/ whistles) & Carra Nic an Bhaird (Harp).

The Henry Girls at The Sugar Club Harp Sessions
2024-03-28 20:30 - 22:00 | The Sugar Club, 8 Leeson Street Lower, Dublin, D02 ET97, Ireland
Experience a new ‘take’ on Irish harping from some of our foremost young harpers. Cruit Éireann|Harp Ireland’s Sugar Club Harp Sessions continue throughout 2024 and feature innovative, cutting-edge Irish harp performances from a variety of players, pushing the boundaries of the tradition in new and exciting ways.
Our second concert on Thursday 28th March features Irish harper Joleen McLaughlin joined by her sisters, Karen and Lorna in the Irish folk trio The Henry Girls. Renowned for their enchanting melodies and captivating harmonies, and with harp as their signature instrument, they evoke the soul of Celtic tradition while infusing it with a modern edge. Their new album A Time to Grow bridges the gap between the past and the present, and their recent track with Ríoghnach Connolly, Not your fight has been nominated as ‘Best Original Folk Track’ at this year’s RTÉ Radio One Folk Awards.
“A Time To Grow is enchanting, it’s enticing, and it captivates the listener from
the beginning” Irish Music Magazine
“The Henry Girls do not cleave to any narrow definitions of folk or tradition,
their expansive world view is a rich source of nourishment” The Irish Times
Book here for their Dublin performance on Thursday 28th March 2024.

Session with the Pipers with Eilís Lavelle (harp), Muireann Ní Shé (pipes and song), Pax Ó Faoláin (fiddle) and Mícheál Ó Sé (accordion)
2024-04-02 21:30 - 23:00 | The Cobblestone Pub, 77 King St N, Dublin, Dublin, D07 TP22, Ireland
Session with the Pipers – Na Píobairí Uilleann

Tuesday, 2 April 2024, 9.30pm
The Cobblestone Pub, Dublin

Na Píobairí Uilleann are delighted to present ‘Session with the Pipers’ in The Cobblestone on Tuesday 2nd April 2024 at 9:30pm, doors open at 9pm. This month’s line-up features:
Muireann Ní Shé (uilleann pipes & song)
Pax Ó Faoláin (fiddle)
Mícheál Ó Sé (accordion)
Eilís Lavelle (harp)
Admission is €15 (concession rate €10). Tickets are available on the door and online here
Please note that the Cobblestone is an Over 18s Only Venue.
Supported by Arts Council Ireland.

Tuamgraney Harp Festival 2024
2024-04-05 - 2024-04-07 | Tuamgraney, Co Clare
Tuamgraney Harp Festival
5-7th April 2024
Tuamgraney and its surrounds are renowned for traditional music and are home to several highly acclaimed musicians. Traditional music sessions are held regularly at Nuala’s in the village and as part of several festivals held throughout the year.
The area is also steeped in other aspects of the Arts with the adjoining villages hosting a range of events throughout the year. These include the longest continuous amateur drama festival in Ireland and an Arts festival attracting many international artistes.
The Blossom Harp Festival was initiated in 2016 in the village of Tuamgraney. The festival runs overs two days and aims to rejuvenate interest in the harp, the Irish national emblem and integral to our culture for centuries, by supporting ensembles and integration with other traditional instruments.
To achieve this aim workshops have been held, primarily in the harp, at introductory, intermediate and advanced level, but also in the fiddle and concertina, all facilitated by renowned musicians. A competition for solo harpists and combination groups was introduced in 2017.
Cruit Éireann | Harp Ireland are delighted to support two young harpers attending the festival this year.
More information on the festival and tickets available here.

Consairtín Gala Concert featuring Gráinne Hambly, William Jackson & Donnchadh MacAodha
2024-04-06 20:00 - 22:00 | Glór, Ennis, Co Clare, Ennis, Co Clare, Ireland
The culmination of Consairtín’s festival activities will feature the beautiful harp, concertina and bouzouki music of Gráinne Hambly and William Jackson, featuring a stunning repertoire of tunes, principally drawn from the Irish and Scottish traditions. Greta Curtin, Dónal Murphy, Jessie Healy and Eoin Murphy will combine their brilliant musicianship to present the very best of music from west Limerick and north Kerry.
The concert will also feature the premiere of a new suite of music, ‘Idir Dhá Thost’, composed by Donnchadh Mac Aodha, the inaugural recipient of the Consairtin Composition Bursary, in association with the Music Department, University College Cork. The piece will be performed by Garry Shannon (flute), Francis Cunningham (concertina), Therese McInerney (fiddle), Sinéad Heagney (viola), Lexie Boatright (harp) with Donnchadh himself on piano.
RAGAIREACHT, who have qualified for the final of Gael-Linn’s Siansa competition in the NCH on 14th April, will be given a big Clare and Consairtín send-off when they perform in glór.

For more information please click here

Stone Drawn Circles – In Formation @ New Music Dublin 2024
2024-04-25 22:00 - 23:00 | National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace, Saint Kevin's, Dublin, D02 N527
Stone Drawn Circles – In Formation @ New Music Dublin 2024
Thursday 25th April 2024, 10pm
Venue: Kevin Barry Recital Room, NCH
Tickets: €15
Lina Andonovska, flute
Nathan Sherman, viola
Michelle O’Rourke, voice
Alex Petcu, percussion
Caimin Gilmore, double bass
Úna Monaghan, harp / sound design
Úna Monaghan In Formation (2023) [Irish premiere]
Karen Power Can you hear me now??? (2019) [Irish premiere]
Brian Irvine new work (2024) [world premiere]
Cat Hope Landay Sequenzas (2022) [Irish premiere]
Nicole Lizée Peril Earrings (2023) [Irish premiere]
Heralded as a ‘supergroup within new music circles in Ireland’ by Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, Stone Drawn Circles inhabits a new space in Irish contemporary music. In this late-night performance at NMD, the ensemble investigates new modes of communication, collaborative dynamics and shifting paradigms.
In spite of their relatively short existence as a group, Stone Drawn Circle’s debut performance season includes appearances at several prestigious festivals, and a PRS Beyond Borders tour of the UK. The ensemble believes in rich composer/performer dialogues and in the bending of traditional performance dynamics, which is evident in this launch-season offering—a trip through various genres and forms of contemporary sound art, performed by some of Ireland’s leading contemporary players.
Brian Irvine’s new work was commissioned by the Contemporary Music Centre for Stone Drawn Circles with funds from PRS Foundation Beyond Borders funding.
Stone Drawn Circles are supported by the Arts Council of Ireland.
In Formation and Landay Sequenzas were created with the financial assistance of a Commission Award, funded by the Arts Council/An Chomhaírle Ealaíon.
Stone Drawn Circles: In Formation tour is project-managed by the Contemporary Music Centre, Ireland, supported by PRS Foundation Beyond Borders funding.

Féile na hInse 2024
2024-04-26 - 2024-04-28 | Inishowen, Co Donegal
Féile na hInse, Inishowen Traditional Music Project’s annual festival will take place in Carndonagh, Inishowen, Co.Donegal from the 26th-28th of April.

This festival weekend will provide opportunities for people to take part in or enjoy workshops, concerts, sessions, talks and an online film screening.
Friday 26th- Online screening- Archive 23
Friday 28th, 8pm, Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
– Pór. A concert to celebrate the launch of Roisin McGrory’s second album Pór. Roisin will be joined by Steve Cooney, Paul Harrigan, Paul McClure and Deirdre & Ella McGrory
Friday 26th, 10pm, Simpson’s bar,
Carndonagh-Festival Club session with Sinead McKenna, Oisin Murphy and Mickey Fearon
Saturday 27th, 11am, Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
Intermediate Ensemble workshops with Lauren O’Neill and Damian McKee
Saturday 27th, 11am, Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
Advanced Ensemble workshops with Conal O’Kane and Marty Barry
Saturday session trail
12noon, Farren’s bar, Carndonagh. Eugene McKenna, Oisin Murphy, Oisin Duffy
2pm, McClure’s Bar, Carndonagh, Mairead & Siobhan O’Connor, Michael Gallangh
4pm, Glen Bar, Carndonagh, Sinead McKenna, Paula Houton, Paul McClure
9pm, McClure’s Bar, Carndonagh, Rona & Barry McLaughlin and Mickey Fearon
Saturday 27th, 7pm, Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
Music from the North, featuring Marty Barry, Conal O’Kane, Damian McKee, Lauren O’Neill, Sinead & Eugene McKenna, Oisin Murphy and Micky Fearon
Sunday 28th, 11am Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
Guitar Masterclass with Conal O’Kane & Marty Barry
Sunday 28th, 12 noon, Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
Talk- ‘When they started Jazzing there’, by Conor Caldwell
Sunday 28th, 1.30-3.30, Colgan Hall, Carndonagh
A Celebration of Dance. Joe & Mary McGuiggan will host a workshop looking at dances from the Northwest of Ireland. This will include the lancers, two hand dances and a new collaboration of steps and hornpipe tune composed by Paul Harrigan.
A Celebration of Dance, Song and Music 4pm-6pm
This relaxed event will celebrate, dance, music and songs from the Northwest. Fear an Ti for the event is Marcas O’Murchu.
Farewell session 6pm, Glen Bar, Carndonagh, Tom Byrne, Joleen McLaughlin, Fionnan McIvor

For more information, please click here

Earthrise @ New Music Dublin 2024
2024-04-28 11:00 - 14:00 | National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace, Saint Kevin's, Dublin, D02 N527
Sunday 28th April 2024, 11am
Venue: Kevin Barry Recital Room, NCH
Tickets: €15
Musici Ireland
Beth McNinch, solo viola
Ioana Petcu-Colan, Mia Cooper, Jane Hackett & Siobhan Doyle, violin
Ed Creedon, viola
Katie Tertell & Niamh Molloy, cello
Roger McCann, double bass
Dianne Marshall, harp
Meadhbh O’Rourke, flute
Conor Sheil, clarinet
Peter Ryan, horn
Deirdre Gribbin Before the moon shattered and shone again (2019)
Amanda Feery Square Movement (2016)
Linda Buckley Fiol (2008)
Liam Bates Earthrise (2023)
Chamber music collective Musici Ireland have made a name for themselves in Ireland and further afield for sharing stories of the country and its history, with an inspiring blend of artistry and social activism. This daytime concert is a celebration of the group’s upcoming debut album, which features chamber works by six living Irish composers.
Displaying the ensemble’s versatility, their programme encompasses everything from meditation and glimpses of the natural world to moments of heightened drama. It ends with the Dublin premiere of Earthrise – a new concerto for viola and chamber ensemble by Wexford-based Liam Bates – alongside a presentation from the composer and soloist Beth McNinch about the commission, how it came about and the process of writing such a significant new work.

Click here for more information.

Catrin Finch & Aoife Ní Bhriain at Bray Jazz Festival 2024
2024-05-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Bray Town Hall, Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow, A98 D2X9, Ireland
‘Double You’ is the debut album from Welsh harpist Catrin Finch and Irish fiddle virtuoso Aoife Ní Bhriain – an exquisite collection of music that was released late in 2023, and draws inspiration from various genres and the cultures of their home countries.
Just this Spring it appeared on RTE’s short list of the best traditional music releases of last year.
From the west coast of Wales, harpist Catrin Finch has built an impressive classical career, while also venturing into unchartered musical territory, most notably through her award- winning collaborations with West African kora player Seckou Keita and with Colombian supergroup Cimarrón.
Dublin native Aoife Ní Bhriain is one of her generation’s most versatile and gifted violinists, a dazzling musician who commands both the classical world and her Irish traditional heritage.
Together, Aoife and Catrin form a formidable virtuoso duo, eager to explore a musical world of creative possibility, challenge and discovery, inspired by a multitude of influences and linked by the cultures of their home countries. Their debut public performance was at the Other Voices festival in Cardigan, Wales, at the end of 2022.
Tickets available here.

Stone Drawn Circles - harp, electronics, viola, voice, flutes, double bass and percussion.
2024-05-09 08:00 - 2024-05-16 17:00
‘Stone Drawn Circles’ is Lina Andonovska (flutes), Nathan Sherman (viola), Michelle O’Rourke (voice), Alex Petcu (percussion), Caimin Gilmore (double bass) & Úna Monaghan (harp/sound design).
Fearless interpreters of new music, ‘Stone Drawn Circles’ are newcomers to the burgeoning Irish contemporary music scene. The group brings together 6 trailblazing artists that hold exploratory music at the heart of their practice. Each member is fervently active in the performance and dissemination of new music.
The ensemble features players from groups including Eighth Blackbird, stargaze, Crash Ensemble and Ergodos.
Equally at ease with complexity as they are in graphic scoring and improvisation, Stone Drawn Circles are a collective of risk-takers and sonic explorers. They have already drawn international attention, with Director of Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival (UK) Graham McKenzie noting them in his ‘Hidden Gems’ of the 2023 festival, describing Stone Drawn Circles as “a bit of a supergroup within new music circles in Ireland. One look at the repertoire they serve up here gives credence to that viewpoint…”

Úna Monaghan (Northern Ireland, 1983) In Formation (2023) 10’ Irish Premiere
Karen Power (Ireland, 1977) Can you hear me now??? (2019) 17’
Cat Hope (Australia, 1966) Landay Sequenzas (2022) 14’ Irish Premiere
Brian Irvine (Northern Ireland, 1965), A Call To Arms (2024) World Premiere
Nicole Lizée (Canada, 1973) Peril Earrings (2023) 8’ Irish Premiere

Ennis: 9th May 8pm – Tickets available here
Cork: 11th May 1pm – Tickets available here
Dublin: 12th May 12pm – Tickets available here
Belfast, 16th May 7.30pm – Tickets available here

Cruitirí Chill Mhantáin
2024-05-10 20:00 - 22:00 | Coolattin House, Coolattin Park, Shillelagh, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Cruitirí Chill Mantáin
Friday 10th May 2024
Coolattin House, Wicklow
8pm

Featuring melodies inspired by fairies and folklore and traditional arrangements for Irish harp and flute, Cruitirí Chill Mhantáin will showcase the very best of local harping talent in Co. Wicklow. Join Cruit Éireann | Harp Ireland at Coolattin House on Friday 10th May to celebrate our rich cultural heritage.
Aisling Ennis is a highly regarded harper both at home and internationally and works to support and enrich the arts in Wicklow. Aisling’s performance will reflect her evocative playing across a broad spectrum of genres, ongoing experimental collaborations and innovative approaches to programming.

Rachel Duffy, from Bray, Co. Wicklow is a harper and PhD researcher at TU Dublin. Having performed at festivals across Ireland and internationally, Rachel’s music is inspired by both the Irish harp’s history and exciting developments in harping today . For this concert, Rachel will collaborate with local flute maestro Jack Hennessy.

Don’t miss out on your tickets – book now at www.courthousearts.ie

Ceiliúradh Cruitireachta: Happy Birthday Mary O'Hara
2024-05-12 19:00 - 21:00 | An Taibhdhearc, 19 Middle Street, Galway, H91 RX76, Ireland
Ceiliúradh Cruitireachta: Happy Birthday Mary O’Hara
Dé Domhnaigh 12ú Bealtaine | Sunday 12th May

An Taibhdhearc, Gaillimh
Seolfar albam úr Moya Brennan agus Cormac de Barra Voices and Harps IV ar bhreithlá Mary O’Hara Dé Domhnaigh 12 Bealtaine 7pm ag ócáid speisialta le Cruit Éireann|Harp Ireland i dTaidhbhearc na Gaillimhe. Tugann Voices & Harps IV, aitheantas do shaol agus do cheol Mary le foinn agus amhráin ar nós An Maidrín Rua agus The Spinning Wheel. Beidh Mary fhéin inár dteannta dár ndóigh agus cuirfear fáilte mhór roimpi ar an oíche mhór ceiliúrtha seo.

“Ba chruitire inspioráideach agus ceannródaí ár dtraidisiúin í Mary, agus is mó duine a raibh tionchar aici ar a gcuid ceoil, Moya Brennan agus Cormac de Barra san áireamh. Bígí linn d’ocáid fíorspéisialta agus muid ag ceiliúradh cruitire agus amhránaí den scoth” arsa Lauren Ní Néill, Príomhfheidhmeannach Chruit Eireann|Harp Ireland.

Join Cruit Éireann | Harp Ireland for Happy Birthday, Mary O’Hara in Taidhbhearc na Gaillimhe on Sunday 12 May at 7pm, as we celebrate the renowned Mary O’Hara’s birthday with the release of Voices and Harps IV; Moya Brennan and Cormac de Barra’s latest album.

Mary O’Hara was an inspirational harper|singer and a pioneer of the harping tradition, whose songs to her harp accompaniment influenced musicians all over the world, and who held countless audiences spellbound from London’s Albert Hall to Carnegie Hall, New York to the Sydney Opera House.

“Voices & Harps IV, Moya Brennan and Cormac de Barra’s latest album pays tribute to the life and music of Mary O’Hara with old favourites such as An Maidrín Rua and The Spinning Wheel. We are delighted that Mary herself will join us for this special occasion that will showcase her music to a new generation” commented Lauren Ní Néill, Cruit Éireann| Harp Ireland’s CEO. Ná caill an deis seo. Bígí linn!
Book your ticket now at https://www.antaibhdhearc.com/

Tuilleadh eolais: info@harpireland.ie
More information: info@harpireland.ie

TU Dublin Harp Ensemble Lunchtime Recital
2024-05-16 13:15 - 13:50 | TU DUBLIN, Grangegorman, Dublin 7, Dublin, D07 H6K8, Ireland
On Thursday, May 16th, at 13:10 the TU Dublin Harp Ensemble will present a lunchtime concert of historical, traditional Irish, classical and contemporary works for harp in celebration of Ireland’s rich harping tradition. The programme will include compositions and arrangements by Gráinne Hambly, William Jackson, Gráinne Meyer, Anne Crowley and Joan Trimble.
Founded by Denise Kelly McDonnell, the Ensemble is currently directed by Rachel Duffy and Fiona Gryson and mentored by Clíona Doris. Each of the members is either studying for an undergraduate BMus or BMusEd degree or is pursuing Postgraduate studies or PhD research at TU Dublin Conservatoire.
No tickets or booking required.

Lisa Canny / Music Generation Mayo: Féile Mhaigh Eo
2024-05-17 20:00 - 22:00 | Linenhall Arts Centre, Linenall Street, Knockthomas, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, F23 AN24, Ireland
Part of Féile Mhaigh Eo, a youth music festival run by a council of young musicians, alt-trad artist Lisa Canny has collaborated with the Music Generation Mayo Harp Ensembles to premiere new material at this unique concert. Joined by the Music Generation Mayo Harp and Pipe ensemble, special guests and world-class musicians including Grainne Hambly, William Jackson, Emer Mayock, and Diarmaid Moynihan, this will be a special evening.
Audience members under 18 years old can avail of a discount courtesy of Music Generation Mayo. Please contact Box Office for further details.
Tickets available here.

Harps at St Brendan's Church of Ireland, Birr
2024-05-18 19:30 - 21:00 | St Brendan’s Church of Ireland, Oxmantown Mall, Birr
Harps a St Brendan’s Church of Ireland, Birr
Saturday 18th May
St Brendan’s Church of Ireland, Birr

7.30pm

Cruit Éireann | Harp Ireland, in partnership with The Trench Trust, are delighted to announce a second in their harp concert series at St Brendan’s Church of Ireland on Saturday 18th May 2024 at 7.30pm. Cruit Éireann | Harp Ireland was established in 2017 in partnership with The Arts Council | An Chomhairle Ealaíon to support the continuing evolution of the harp and its music. This year, our concert in Birr will celebrate diversity and collaboration with performances from The Mulcahy Family and pedal harp and clarinet duo Dathanna.

Mick, Louise and Michelle Mulcahy of Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick play a dazzling array of instruments between them but it’s the sweetness and tunefulness of their ensemble playing that is most striking. Their latest family album ‘The Reel Note’ has received worldwide acclaim, an album full of soulful traditional music and was awarded Trad Connect Album of the Year in 2017.

Harp and Clarinet duo Dathanna, featuring Fiona Gryson and Berginald Rash is forged in friendship, mutual respect and joyful musical collaborations that highlight the timbral beauty, emotive expressiveness, and unique pairing of the harp and clarinet. Both Fiona and Berginald are celebrated concert artists nationally and internationally with a wide repertoire and long history of musical success and will perform a selection of repertoire from their debut album release, Dathanna: Hues and Shades, featuring an array of popular classics.

Lauren Ní Néill, CEO of Cruit Éireann | Harp Ireland said “We are delighted to collaborate with The Trench Trust for the second consecutive year on a partnership which continues to strengthen, support and promote Irish harping in Birr. Building upon the success of last year’s concert, we look forward to welcoming audiences to St Brendan’s Church of Ireland to experience the magic of family music-making with Michelle, Mick and Louise Mulcahy, alongside the unique pairing of pedal harp and clarinet.”
Tickets for Harps at St. Brendan’s Church of Ireland, Birr, on Saturday 18th May at 7.30pm are available here.

2024-05-19 15:00 - 16:30 | St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny, St Mary's Cathedral, James St, Gardens, Kilkenny, Ireland
Marble City Music Festival
17th – 19th May 2024
The Marble City Music Festival is the vision of Kilkenny native and world-renowned violinist, Patrick Rafter. After a completely sold-out 2023 Christmas edition, we have a stellar line-up of musicians for our 3 spectacular concerts in Kilkenny city from May 17th – 19th 2024.
For 2024, Patrick will be joined by one of Ireland’s most renowned pianists, Michael McHale, Maldovan Pan-Flute player Iulian Pusca, former Celtic Women Soprano Megan Ruby Walsh, award-winning Irish Harpist, Claire O’ Donnell, and critically-acclaimed Irish pianist, Billy O’ Brien.
Friday 17th May 8PM
Cinema Classics
Patrick Rafter joins Moldovan PanFlute Player Iulian Pusca, Irish harpist Claire O Donnell and pianist Billy O’Brien for a magical concert of cinema classics featuring the greatest soundtracks and love themes of the 20th century! Themes from the Lord of the Rings, Out of Africa, the Godfather and many more!
Saturday 18th May 8PM
Violin and piano
Presented by RTE Lyric FM’s Lorcan Murray. Patrick Rafter joins celebrated Irish pianist Michael McHale to perform an incredible program
including Cesar Franck and Chopin.
Sunday 19th May at 3PM
A Celebration of Disney
Former Celtic-woman soprano, Megan Ruby Walsh performs a magical Disney Classics with award winning harpist Claire O’ Donnell, and the wonderful Irish pianist Billy O’ Brien featuring themes from Frozen, the Little Mermaid, Pocahontas, Cinderella and the Prince of Egypt! A magical family event to witness these incredible musicians performing showstoppers.

All tickets available at www.marblecitymusicfestival.com or at 089 237 3596.
