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Articles by Mel Wright
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Eoghan Neff has been celebrated by the international press for his fiddle wizardry and complete mastery of live looping, incorporating old-school analogue technology. Having toured across theatre, festival and arena stages around the world, Neff has also featured on film scores by Oscar-winning and Cannes-winning directors, alongside a broad sweep of European television, documentary, animation and live screen productions.
Taking Charge of Your Performance Career 2026: Engaging with Venues at The Carnegie Library, Swords
Music Network presents a two-day training course for professional performing musicians working in all genres. This course will help you to develop the confidence, knowledge and practical skills needed to work effectively with venues.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Jennifer McMahon is a vocalist, songwriter, producer, performer & educator from Dublin. She holds an MA in Contemporary Performance from Berklee College of Music & a BA in Jazz Performance from Newpark Music Centre. Jennifer has studied with vocalists Marie Séférian, Lauren Kinsella, Jenna Harris & Olga Roman as well as saxophonists Perico Sambeat & Javier Vercher.
Tribute to Ron Kavana with Thomas McCarthy: 47th Cork Folk Festival at Triskel
On Saturday 4 May 2024, Ronnie Kavanagh died after a long illness. Born in Fermoy Ronnie was a musician, a historian, a singer and a songwriter. He was known to his fans and music industry as Ron Kavana and during his hectic career he played with The Pogues, Elvis Costello, Paddy Keenan, Miriam Kavana, Keith Richards, and Dr John. Ron was hugely influential as a songwriter and performer and toured with and appeared in the Pogues movie, If I Should Fall From Grace With God.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
The McCarthy Sisters – Jacqueline, Marion and Bernadette – are steeped in the rich musical tradition of West Clare. Born in London to Irish parents, they grew up at the heart of the vibrant Irish traditional music community there. Their father, Tommy McCarthy of Kilmihil, Co. Clare, was a highly regarded uilleann piper and concertina player, and through him they encountered many of the great musicians of the Irish tradition.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Martin Hayes’ soulful interpretations of traditional Irish music are recognized the world over for their exquisite musicality and irresistible rhythm.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
If you’re looking for music that captures the soul of Ireland, look no further than Gatehouse. With a lineup that includes Rachel Garvey (Vocals), Jacinta McEvoy, (guitar and concertina) John McEvoy (fiddle and Mandola), and John Wynne, (flute and whistles), this talented group skillfully blend the rich traditions of Irish music with their own unique sound. What sets Gatehouse apart, is their ability to seamlessly weave together haunting melodies and rousing instrumentals.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Blanca and Chuchi (aka Blanca Altable and Chuchiguitarra) are a duo formed in 2009 with a vision of bringing fresh life to Castilian traditional repertoire through beauty and creativity. Over the years, they have built an extensive body of original music, blending the Castilian-rooted tradition with a contemporary folk sensibility shaped by influences from across the world. With violin, vocals and acoustic guitar at its heart, their music has a distinctive and instantly recognisable sound.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Clare Sands The Rostrevor Folk Club at Crawfords Oct 12th, 2026, 8pm. Clare Sands returns to the Folk Club to launch her new album – ‘They Tried to Bury Us’, which gives voice to the silenced: the endangered curlew; Lí Ban of Lough Neagh; lost words of our native tongue; the Rostrevor oak; those seeking refuge on our shores and the Palestinian poets whose words embody defiance and inspire generations. A fast-rising star of Irish folk, Clare has been wowing audiences around the world.
RTÉ lyric fm’s Vespertine with Ellen Cranitch Celebrates 40 years of Music Network at glór
This October Music Network celebrates 40 years with a special anniversary concert. This exceptional evening of live music will feature the very best of traditional, folk, jazz and classical music and brings together acclaimed Irish and international artists from across Music Network’s programmes.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
One of Ireland’s most distinctive boutique music festivals, Baltimore Fiddle Fair, returns to Dublin this November for a very special event at The Sugar Club, bringing together three outstanding acts from Ireland and across Europe. Following the success of last year’s inaugural showcase, the event offers Dublin audiences the chance to experience the adventurous, intimate and international spirit that has made Baltimore Fiddle Fair such a beloved fixture of the Irish music calendar.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
The Arbour Hillbillies are a four-piece traditional Bluegrass band based in Dublin's Arbour Hill. Known for bringing authentic, high-energy American Roots music to the Irish live circuit, they deliver a mix of sharp flat-picking, mandolin leads & tight vocal harmonies. Come along for a fantastic night of foot-stomping tunes! With support from singer-songwriter Enda McCabe. Doors 8pm, tickets €20 on Eventbrite & at the door.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
An evening of collaboration and song – Lisa Hannigan, Gemma Hayes and Paul Noonan have always individually danced between genres as artists. Collaboration is part of the makeup of each of their careers. Three artists who have predominantly been centre-stage in their careers, while also experiencing the other parts and spaces and instruments that populate a band; Lisa, Gemma and Paul will come together to collaborate and share their stage and their songs with each other.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Radio Kerry’s Mary Conroy brings her popular Tóg Sos show to Siamsa Tíre once again.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Continue your festival journey into the late evening with an atmospheric concert in the stunning surroundings of St Columb's Cathedral. The Apex Singers present exceptional a cappella singing, blending classical choral artistry with the warmth and storytelling of folk traditions. Their specially curated programme features well-loved and hidden gems from Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Peter O’Toole is a Dublin-born musician, songwriter, composer and producer whose career has taken him from busking across Europe at 16 to international stages with the Hothouse Flowers and collaborations with artists including Luka Bloom, The Waterboys, Ronnie Wood, Maria Doyle Kennedy and Indigo Girls. A founding member of Hothouse Flowers, Peter has toured extensively worldwide and contributed to some of the band’s best-known recordings.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Californian singer songwriter Alela Diane plays Whelan’s on Wednesday the 30th of September, 2026. With seven full-length albums to her name including the 2026 release Who’s Keeping Time? Alela Diane continues to craft insanely beautiful songs that feel both delicate and resilient earning acclaim from Pitchfork Uncut and The Guardian. Her work stands as a quiet testament to authenticity in contemporary folk.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
With Garry, Majella, Killian and Mary Shannon, Liam Ó Maonlaí, Mundy, Carlos Núñez, Susan O'Neill, the Sharon Shannon Band. Host: John Kelly. In 2026, the National Concert Hall is delighted to present its Lifetime Achievement Award to the singular musician Sharon Shannon in recognition of her unique contribution to Irish music. Reared and steeped in the traditional music of County Clare, her album Galway Girl is considered a landmark in Irish music.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
With over 150 thousand followers and 10 million views worldwide, Irish trad band The Rising celebrates 10 years by bringing their Decades Tour to Whelan's Dublin on Monday September 14th. Support from Ciaran Quigley. WebsiteAdd a Listing Please note that some listings are added by third parties. The Journal of Music in Ireland does not take responsibility for the content or accuracy of listings published by third parties on this site.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Rónán Ó Snodaigh and Myles O’Reilly bring together rhythm, language and immersive sound in one of the most quietly distinctive collaborations in contemporary Irish music. A founding member of Kíla, Ó Snodaigh’s voice moves between chant, song and incantation, shaped by the Irish language and decades of boundary-blurring performance. Composer and filmmaker O’Reilly builds spacious, atmospheric environments where words are given room to breathe and unfold.
All the Dead Voices – A series of GATECRASHES curated by Foggy Notions: Lisa O'NeillLisa O'Neill
All the Dead Voices – A series of GATECRASHES curated by Foggy Notions. Foggy Notions presents three nights of live music from the darkest fringes of ethereal pop, folk, and experimental drone from Ireland at the world-famous Gate Theatre whose stage has been platforming innovative artists and uncompromising voices for nearly one hundred years. Curated by Foggy Notions who are responsible for acclaimed music programmes such as Haunted Dancehall, MusicTown and the Dun Laoghaire Folk Festival.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Armagh-born folk singer Sinéad Willox is bringing her distinctive blend of traditional song, storytelling and contemporary folk to Northern Ireland this September, with two upcoming performances in Belfast and Omagh. The gigs follow the release of Sinéad’s latest single, Dobbin’s Flowery Vale, a beautifully reimagined traditional song from Co. Armagh, and her acclaimed debut solo album Seoda Uladh (Jewels of Ulster).
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Martin Hayes will be joined by a number of musicians for a memorable evening of traditional music in the unique and intimate setting of Bantry House. *Please note this event is now sold out. Contact the Box Office on 027 52788 or info@westcorkmusic.ie to join the waiting list. Masters of Tradition takes place in Bantry, Co. Cork, from 19 to 23 August. Download the programme below for full details.
Irish Rhapsodies: Selena O’Neill and Seán Doherty (World Premieres) – Aoife Ní Bhriain and Cormac McCarthy @ Masters of Tradition 2026
Irish Rhapsodies: Selena O’Neill and Seán Doherty (World Premieres) Aoife Ní Bhriain (violin) and Cormac McCarthy (piano), long-time musical collaborators, present the world premiere of Irish Rhapsody by Selena O’Neill. Selena O’Neill (b. 1893) was a pianist active in the Irish music community in Chicago, best known for accompanying the collector Francis O’Neill in his later publications. Until recently, she had not been recognised as a composer.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Join The Céadaoin Collective on the penultimate night of their inaugural Irish tour in Tuar Ard Arts Centre, Moate, with support from local artist Keeve.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Lily Neill Rostrevor Folk Club at Crawfords Sept 7th, 2026. 8pm. We welcome back one of the world’s finest harpists to the Folk Club. Multi-award winning, Lily has played to large audiences around the globe, including world leaders, and performed with music legends, like the Chieftains. Playing everything from traditional Irish music to ragtime, tangos and early music, she will be previewing her new album.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
For over 35 years, Tommy Fleming has been honing his craft and entertaining the masses with his extraordinary talent. His worldwide success has made him a household name in many homes across the globe and his fanbase is growing year on year. It’s not hard to see why; music is a universal language and one Tommy is undoubtedly fluent in.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
The Foster & Allen’s Golden Greats Tour will be filled with all the songs that made them famous all over the world. They will be performing all their Hit Singles like Bunch Of Thyme, Old Flames, Maggie, After All These Years, I Will Love You all My Life, as well as Medley’s Of Songs from their Chart topping Album’s and DVD’s.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
The Tumbling Paddies are a high-energy Irish folk/Trad-Pop band from County Fermanagh who’ve become one of the most exciting live acts on the contemporary Irish music scene. Since forming in 2014 and evolving from local pub and wedding gigs into sold-out headline shows across Ireland and beyond, they’ve built a loyal following with their unique blend of traditional Irish music, original songwriting and modern pop sensibilities.
Applications are now invited for the Music Network National Musical Instrument Collection (Music Capital Scheme Award 4) - open to classical string players.
Applications are now open for The Music Network National Musical Instrument Collection – Music Capital Scheme Award 4, designed specifically for emerging classical players. The Music Capital Scheme is supported by the Department Culture, Communications and Sport and provides funding for musical instruments.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Tlú Lín is a new suite of music and arrangements of sean-nós songs by Neil Ó Lochlainn. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neilolochlainn/ Tickets €15 WebsiteAdd a Listing Please note that some listings are added by third parties. The Journal of Music in Ireland does not take responsibility for the content or accuracy of listings published by third parties on this site. The Journal of Music in Ireland reserves the right to edit or delete listings. Click here to add a listing, login or register.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Cameron Knowler is a Yuma-born guitarist, multi-instrumentalist and educator whose music fuses desert minimalism with deep-rooted, old fashioned American folk traditions. Adeline Hotel is the moniker for the Brooklyn-based indie/chamber-folk project spearheaded by singer-songwriter Dan Knishkowy. Known for its intimate, melancholic, and exploratory sound, the project blends delicate guitar arrangements with introspective lyrics.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin - voice, flute Muireann Ní Shé - pipes Ultan O Brien - alto fiddle Cathal Roche - clarinets Neil Ó Lochlainn - bass, flute Brendan Doherty - drums A suite of new music and arrangements of sean-nós songs associated with the Iorras Aithneach area of South Conamara. Kirkos space, Little Green Street, D7. 8pm. €15 WebsiteAdd a Listing Please note that some listings are added by third parties.
Glasshouse perform Sigur Rós @ Galway International Arts Festival 2026
The acclaimed Dublin ensemble Glasshouse reimagine the music of Sigur Rós in a spellbinding live performance with rich arrangements by Robert Reid Allan. From fragile, whisper-soft moments to vast, surging crescendos, these iconic songs unfold with new depth, intensity and emotional power. A rare chance to step inside the luminous sound world of Sigur Rós and experience it anew — an immersive, intimate and utterly transportive experience not to be missed.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Irish harpist Tríona Marshall is celebrated for the expressive depth and radiant tone of her playing, bringing together the worlds of Irish traditional, classical, and contemporary music. Her performances are marked by emotional clarity, subtle virtuosity, and a profound sense of connection with audiences.
Ceolchoirm Chuimhneacháin Mhuiris Uí Rócháin @ Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2026
Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy, the annual school of traditional music, song and dance, runs from Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 July in Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare. For the full day-by-day schedule, see below, or visit www.scoilsamhraidhwillieclancy.com. Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy 2026 Saturday 4 July 3–6pm – Information Desk at Community Centre. 8pm – Oscailt Oifigiúil/Official Opening by Brian Mullen, traditional singer, radio presenter and tutor at Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Small Town Jones is the musical project of Devon-based singer-songwriter Jim Jones, crafting intimate Indie Folk and Americana rooted in emotional honesty and real-life experience. Drawing comparisons to Elliott Smith, Bruce Springsteen, The Band and Wilco, his songs explore heartbreak, hope, loss and repair. His acclaimed album 'Kintsugi' earned support from BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 6 Music, alongside a four-star review in Mojo and widespread critical acclaim.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Is ceolchoirm bhliantúil ceoil Ghaelaigh í ‘Cóisir an tSamhraidh’ a reáchtáiltear i dTeach Fota, Carraig Thuathail. (Fota House Carrigtwohill) Bíonn na léirithe ar fad trí mheán na Gaeilge, agus is tráthnóna den scoth é ina mbíonn ceoltóirí agus amhránaithe den chéad scoth i mbun ceoil. Bíonn deis ag an lucht freastail cupán tae nó caife a bheith acu le linn na sosanna agus comhrá a dhéanamh lena gcairde.
Ceolchoirm Seolta Leabhair agus Albaim – Diane Cannon- Min na Craoibhe
I gcomhpháirt le Cultúrlann Mhic Adam Ó Fiaich agus le tacaíocht ó Oireachtas na Gaeilge. Bígí linn don cheolchoirm sheolta le Diane Cannon agus í ag ceiliúradh fhoilsiú a leabhair dhátheangach nua agus an albaim cheoil a ghabhann leis, Mín na Craoibhe. Ceiliúrann an cheolchoirm speisialta seo cnuasach thar a bheith pearsanta d’amhráin, de scéalta agus de chomhoibrithe ceoil atá fréamhaithe i dtraidisiún amhránaíochta sean-nóis Dhún na nGall.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Legendary British singer-songwriter Ralph McTell has announced that his final national tour of Ireland, Somewhere Down the Road, will come to Armagh’s Market Place on Friday 30 October. The farewell tour will see McTell return to venues across the country for one last run of live dates, offering audiences a chance to celebrate a remarkable career that has spanned more than half a century.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Belfast TradFest presents in association with Eastside Arts Festival and Strand Arts Centre. An explosive celebration of piping, percussion and pulse, With Pipe & Drum brings together world-class traditional musicians from across Ireland, Scotland and the United States of America.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Céiliúradh Ceoil á chraoladh beo ar Raidió na Gaeltachta featuring TG4 Gradam Ceoil Award Winners and guest performers representing Raidió na Gaeltachta and Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy. Sunday 5 July; 8pm at the Community Centre. *** Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy. the annual school of traditional music, song and dance, runs from Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 July in Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Mark Dignam was born in Dublin, Ireland, and raised for the most part, in Finglas, a working-class suburb known for its rough-and-tumble character, soccer players, and some fine singers and musicians. His mother, Maureen, sang around the house a lot, and the neighborhood itself, was soaked in music; Irish Traditional, Pop, Rock, Punk, Ska and Reggae tunes seemed to be everywhere.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Live at The Cobblestone Backroom Inni-K (Eithne Ní Chatháin) is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and songwriter whose music draws from her extensive background in sean-nós and traditional Irish music, even as she ventures into new musical territories. Known for her powerful live performances and singular creative vision, Inni-K continues to evolve with each release.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Presented by Belfast TradFest & An Droichead in association with Comharchumann Píobaireachta Bhéal Feirste / Belfast Piping Cooperative This special concert brings together some of today’s finest pipers to celebrate the life, artistry and enduring influence of R.L. O’Mealy. A master of the uilleann pipes, O’Mealy’s legacy continues to resonate through generations of musicians.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Formed in late 2024, Nothing’s Perfect brings together the Walshe family (Bob, Robby, and Neil) from The Rower, Co Kilkenny, renowned Wexford singer-songwriter Eddie Doyle, and multi-instrumentalist Daniel Coonan from Roscrea, Co Tipperary. Bob Walshe and his two sons, Robby and Neil have been involved in the live music scene for many years now.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
An unforgettable evening celebrating the masters of Irish traditional music, song, and dance. Featuring some of the most respected and dynamic performers in the tradition today, presented by Belfast’s very own Neil Martin. Oíche speisialta ag ceiliúradh máistrí cheol, amhránaíochta agus damhsa traidisiúnta na hÉireann. Bí ag súil le ceol cumhachtach, amhráin bhinn, damhsa a thógann an croí, agus croílár beo an traidisiúin curtha i lathair ag Neil Martin.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Following their sold-out and hugely acclaimed performance at Belfast TradFest 2024, the legendary Cherish the Ladies return to the festival for what promises to be another unforgettable afternoon of world-class music, song and entertainment. For four decades, Cherish the Ladies have been at the forefront of traditional music, captivating audiences across the globe with their breathtaking musicianship, infectious energy and warm stage presence.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Come join us at An Chúirt Chruitireachta 2026 for a lunchtime concert with harpist and composer Jennifer Leahy! This in-person event will be held at the beautiful An Grianán ICA. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and connect with fellow harpers. Bigí linn! Jennifer Leahy is an award-winning harpist and composer from Co. Meath. Rooted in the Irish harping tradition, she brings fresh energy by mixing traditional and contemporary styles. Jennifer has toured extensively internationally.
The Journal of Music in Ireland | News, Reviews and Opinion
Applications are now invited for the Music Network and Roscommon Arts Office Musician-in-Residence Programme at King House, Boyle. On this occasion, we welcome applications solely from professional musicians who are resident in Ireland, who are autistic/ people with autism and who have a strong track record in music performance. The appointment of the Musician-in-Residence is for 2 months (October to November 2026), and the successful applicant will be paid a bursary of €8,000.
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