The Singing Harps
2024-03-10 15:00 - 17:30 (Europe/Dublin) | 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 | Co Roscommon
‘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.

Éadaoin Ní Mhaicín & Shane McCartan - ILFD Lunch Break Beats
2024-05-21 12:00 - 13:30 | Merrion Square Park, Merrion Square Park, Dublin, Ireland
On Tuesday 21 May from 12:00 – 13:30, as part of their Lunch Break Beats series, International Literature Festival Dublin will joined in Merrion Square Park by Éadaoin Ní Mhaicín & Shane McCartan.
Éadaoin Ní Mhaicín is a multi-award winning contemporary folk musician. With a whole host of awards behind her she has dedicated her time to making music that subtly underlines the beauty of Irish traditional music, not as a lost art but as one of progression that embraces the ideology of a living tradition, showcasing the sheer power and raw creativity it can possess. She will be joined by highly acclaimed guitarist Shane McCartan.

Afro-Irish Festival | Hands on Harps with Luke Webb
2024-05-24 10:00 - 13:00 | Square @ The Irish Institute of Music & Song, Church Street, Balbriggan, Dublin, K32 YV56, Ireland
CÉHI is delighted to joinIrish Institute of Music and Song for a Hands on Harp workshop from Luke Webb this Friday as part of Afro-Irish festival!
We are looking forward to day of fun and interactive harping for the students attending.
Irish Institute of Music & Song, Balbriggan 11.00am-13.00pm

Alfi at Levis Corner House
2024-05-24 20:00 - 22:00 | Levis Corner House, Main St, Balllydehob, Co. Cork, Ireland
On Friday 24th May 2024 at 8.00pm, multi-award winning trio Alfi will perform an intimate set in Levis Croner House, Ballydehob.
Alfi is the collaborative project of musicians Fiachra Meek, Ryan McAuley and Alannah Thornburgh. Featuring an unusual line-up of harp, five string banjo and uilleann pipes, Alfi’s music explores a combination of traditional Irish and Appalachian music and song.

Tickets available here.

Pelléas Ensemble - Henry Roberts flute, Luba Tunnicliffe viola, Oliver Wass harp
2024-05-25 20:00 - 22:00 | The Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle, The Parade, Dukesmeadows, Kilkenny, R95 YRK1, Ireland
Pelléas Ensemble
Henry Roberts – flute
Luba Tunnicliffe – viola
Oliver Wass – harp
Béla Bartók (1881-1945) – Romanian Folk Dances
John Dowland (1563-1626) – In Darkness Let Me Dwell
Ethel Smyth (1858-1944) – Variations on Bonny Sweet Robin
H. Birtwistle (1934-2022) – Entr’actes (selections)
Trad. (arr Henry Roberts) – She Moved Through The Fair
Arnold Bax (1883-1953) – Elegaic Trio
André Jolivet (1905-1974) – Petite Suite
The Pelléas Ensemble are proud advocates for the flute, viola and harp trio, and have spent the last twelve years exploring and expanding the repertoire for the ensemble. They create rich, diverse programmes featuring core works alongside their own arrangements and commissions. This programme spans the centuries, presenting a greatly contrasting combination of ancient song, traditional melodies from different countries, and boundary-breaking works from both the romantic and contemporary periods. Through programming of this kind, the Pelléas Ensemble celebrate the many possibilities of this unusual ensemble.

Alfi at Róisín Dubh
2024-05-25 20:00 - 22:00 | Roisín Dubh, 8 Dominick St Upper, Galway, Co. Galway, H91 N4AP, Ireland
Sat 25th May, 2024 Doors: 8:00pm @ Róisín Dubh (Top Bar)
Multi-award winning trio Alfi is the collaborative project of musicians Fiachra Meek, Ryan McAuley and Alannah Thornburgh. Featuring an unusual line-up of harp, five string banjo and uilleann pipes, Alfi explores a combination of music and song sourced from the folk traditions of Ireland & America.
Alfi released their debut album ‘Say Old Man’ in July 2023 to great critical acclaim – ‘the album captures the organic, full-bodied spirit of their live shows, as well as the distinctive personalities of the players – and marks Alfi as a vital force in Ireland’s ever-diversifying folk scene’ (Hot Press). Nominated for ‘Best Emerging Folk Artist’ at the RTÉ Folk Awards, Alfi have also received numerous accolades including the ‘US Embassy Creative Minds Award’, The ‘Caoimhin O Dochartaigh Award’ at Imbolc International Music Festival and Molloy Award at “Birmingham TradFest”.
Tickets available here

Sounds of Limerick Harp Strings: Imagining the Past and Playing the Present
2024-05-26 11:00 - 12:30 | Lough Gur Visitor Centre, Lough Gur Visitor Centre, Bruff, Co. Limerick, Ireland
Visit the historic site of Lough Gur for free harp entertainment on Sunday 26th May from 11.00am-12.30pm.
Presented by harper Fiana Ní Chonaill in partnership with Comhaltas.

Alfi at The Carlingford Heritage Centre
2024-05-26 16:00 - 17:00 | Carlingford Heritage Centre, Church Road, Carlingford, Co. Louth, Ireland
The Carlingford Heritage Centre will welcome Multi-award winning trio Alfi on Sun, 26 May 2024 16:00.
Alfi is the collaborative project of musicians Fiachra Meek, Ryan McAuley and Alannah Thornburgh. Featuring an unusual line-up of harp, five string banjo and uilleann pipes, Alfi explores a combination of music and song sourced from the folk traditions of Ireland & America. Alfi released their debut album ‘Say Old Man’ in July 2023 to great critical acclaim – ‘the album captures the organic, full-bodied spirit of their live shows, as well as the distinctive personalities of the players – and marks Alfi as a vital force in Ireland’s ever-diversifying folk scene’ (Hot Press).
Get tickets here

Lisa Canny & Band at The Sugar Club Harp Sessions
2024-05-30 20:30 - 22:00 | The Sugar Club, 8 Leeson Street Lower, Dublin, D02 ET97, Ireland
Lisa Canny & Band at The Sugar Club Harp Sessions
Thursday 30th May 2024
Doors at 8pm
Concert at 8.30pm
€25 / €18
The Sugar Club, Leeson Street, Dublin

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 third concert on Thursday 30th May 2024 features Mayo harper Lisa Canny and her band. Writing her own original material, Lisa is inspired as much by contemporary music genres like pop and electronica as she is by Irish traditional music. Her music is unique,exciting and pushes the Irish harp in new directions. In 2022 Lisa released her visual E.P. FOLK+ which received two nominations at Exeter Film Festival, and has recently performed at TedX, collaborated with Rolex, and made the cover of LIFE magazine.
“The most exciting act to come out of Ireland in years” Barry Devlin
“Canny doesn’t do twee and traditional. Instead she rocks the stage like a classically trained Janis Joplin” No More Workhorse
Tickets available here

Harp Workshops, Evening Recital & Talk with Janet Harbison
2024-06-01 10:00 - 21:00 | Portballintrae Village Hall, Portballintrae Village Hall, Beach Road, Portballintrae, Co. Antrim, BT57 8US, Ireland
Join Causeway Harp School for a day of harp music with world renowned harper, teacher, composer and academic, Professor Janet Harbison, in beautiful Portballintrae.
Janet will be teaching harp workshops for all ages throughout the day and, in the evening, giving a harp recital and lecture entitled, ‘The Belfast Harp Festival of 1792 and the Revival of Harp in Ulster’. This promises to be an entertaining, insightful and engaging evening, suitable for all ages. Come along and enjoy the music and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the harp in Ulster.
Janet will be teaching a workshop for kids and teens from 10am-12pm and a workshop for adult players from 2-4pm. These workshops are suitable for players of all abilities (except complete beginners).
The evening event begins at 7pm in Portballintrae Village Hall.
Tickets are available for either workshop only, evening event only or a bundle ticket including a workshop and the event event.
Tickets can be purchased here

By the Light of the Silvery Moon
2024-06-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Visual Theatre, Old Dublin Rd, Carlow, Co. Carlow, R93 A3K1, Ireland
By the Light of the Silvery Moon is a special evening of Irish stories for grown-ups – told through words and music by storyteller/Seanchaí Aindrias de Staic, with harpist Aisling Lyons and percussionist Brian Fleming.
Aindrias’ style is a fast paced, lively, new approach to the ancient Irish art form, yet his work is firmly rooted in the traditional storytelling styles of the west of Ireland.
Inspired by his work in folklore, nature, and the traditional arts, Aindrias brings us on a journey through tales of villages lost to the sea, misadventures of wandering musicians, folkloric myths, and of course his own, self-penned, outrageous tales of otherworldly events.
Strongly influenced by bards such as Raifteri an Fhíle, Brian Merriman and Aindrias MacCruitín – Aindrias and his rustic violin spin wild, outrageous, hilarious, and moving yarns from the roads of rural Ireland.
Tickets available here

Harps Alive | Ceol sa Chaifé le Ciara Taaffe
2024-06-14 12:00 - 14:00 | Caife Ceoil, Caife Ceoil, 287 Antrim Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT15 2GZ, Ireland
Caifé agus ceol cruite le Ciara Taaffe sa Caifé Ceoil in Áras Mhic Reachtain, Béal Feirste dé hAoine 14ú Meitheamh, 12.00-2.00.
Ticéid ar fáil anseo.
