Picture Gallery: O'Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School in full swing

The vibrant village of Keadue has come alive with the sounds of traditional Irish music as the esteemed O'Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School commenced on July 29th, 2024. This iconic celebration, which continues until August 5th, honours the rich legacy of the legendary harper Turlough O'Carolan and draws musicians, artists, and enthusiasts from across the globe.

The festival kicked off on a high note with the Summer School's masterclass workshops, offering participants the chance to immerse themselves in the arts of harp, bodhrán, tin whistle, set dancing, and banjo each morning. The evenings are equally enchanting, with classes in button accordion, fiddle, concertina, flute, traditional singing, and both beginners and advanced sean-nós dancing.

The festivities were officially launched on Monday night, July 29th, at the majestic Kilronan Castle by Attracta Brady, President of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. The opening ceremony was followed by a poignant and uplifting remembrance concert for Arthur Boyle, a cherished former committee member. The concert was a spectacular celebration of music, song, and storytelling, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable festival experience.

In a spectacular one-night-only performance on Tuesday, July 30th, the O’Carolan Country Céilí Band set the céilí ablaze with their lively tunes and infectious energy. The band's captivating rhythms had everyone up and dancing, filling the floor with excitement and sending sparks flying throughout the night.

One of the highlight events so far this week was the enchanting harp recital held in the historic Kilronan Castle. It was an extraordinary evening, featuring talented local harpers Fiachra Guihen, Emma Benson, and Sophie Daly, alongside renowned musicians Jason McGuinness, Micheál Fitzgibbon, and Clodagh Daly. The night resonated with the beautiful strains of O'Carolan's timeless music, creating a magical and unforgettable experience for all.

The excitement continued on Thursday night, August 1st, with the highly anticipated Tutors Concert. This event showcased the crème de la crème of Irish traditional music, harp playing, song, and dance. Compere on the night was Senator Eugene Murphy.

Another highlight to look forward to is the lively céilí on Friday night in St. Ronan’s Hall, featuring the All-Ireland Champions, the Piper Cross Céilí Band. This celebration is set to be a joyous occasion filled with spirited music and dancing, sure to be a highlight of the festival.

On Friday evening, August 2nd, Keadue Tidy Towns invites everyone to join in a 5km Fun Run/Walk, perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts alike. The festivities continue on Saturday, August 3rd, with a delightful Family Fun Day organized by the local sports field committee, starting at 2 pm. Expect an afternoon filled with games, activities, and joy for all ages.

One of the main events of the week, the O’Carolan International Harp Competitions, sponsored by Arigna Fuels, will begin at 10:30 am on Saturday. This prestigious competition attracts talented harpists from around the world, showcasing the very best in traditional harp music. We are immensely grateful to Arigna Fuels Ltd for their generous sponsorship since the festival's inception in 1978.

Saturday night promises a theatrical treat with the performance of "GomBean," a play by Niamh McGrath. Set in a small town in Sligo, the story follows Grace O’Malley, a former wrestler turned reluctant coffee shop owner, navigating life’s highs and lows.

The excitement at the O'Carolan Harp Festival reaches its peak on Sunday, August 4th, with an unforgettable lineup of events. The day kicks off with the vibrant Festival Parade, a colorful display of community spirit and cultural pride. Following the parade, the festivities continue with a spectacular live open-air concert at the GigRig, featuring the fantastic traditional Irish music group Seoid. This talented ensemble includes well-known musicians Kenny Donagher, Kerrie Herrity, John Dwyer, and Keadue's own Fiachra Guihen.

The evening doesn't stop there! The legendary group Cherish the Ladies returns for the festival's marquee concert, set to take place at 9 pm in the newly refurbished St. Ronan’s Hall. Known for their electrifying performances and impeccable musicianship, Cherish the Ladies is a crowd favorite, and this year's concert is expected to be a sell-out. Early booking is highly recommended to ensure a spot at this much-anticipated event.

Tickets are available from the festival website at www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie or by ringing 087 7745878.

A wreath laying ceremony at O’Carolan’s grave, followed by a lecture in the fabulous Kilronan Castle nearby gets the concluding bank holiday Monday underway. This year, we're honoured to welcome Professor Lillis Ó Laoire, who will delve into "Place, Prayer and Power at the Holy Wells of Ireland," offering unique insights into Ireland's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

As the day progresses, the excitement shifts back to the GigRig for more live open-air entertainment. At 3 PM, our talented local CCE group will set the tone, followed by the incredibly popular David James and his band, who are sure to get everyone moving and singing along.

To cap off this incredible festival,  there is the highly anticipated international Door Dancing Competition. This unique event, featuring all styles of traditional Irish dance, will see competitors vie for the titles of 2024 Junior and Senior Door Dancing Champion. Senator Eugene Murphy will serve as the charismatic compere for the night, guiding us through an evening of exhilarating performances.

Come to Keadue as musicians from all over the world celebrate Ireland's rich cultural heritage and the timeless music of Turlough O'Carolan!

See www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie or follow on Facebook – Brochures available from local tourist information offices, theatres, hotel & B&B lobbies, shops or any committee members.