John McFadden Festival 3-5 Feb

We thought you would like to hear about a brand new traditional music festival takin place in Newport 3-5 February...

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The Cuilmore CCÉ are proud to announce the inaugural John McFadden traditional music, song and dance festival on the new February bank holiday weekend (3rd - 5th) in Newport.

We are excited to present a stellar line-up of renowned traditional musicians who will provide a combination of workshops in a variety of traditional instruments. Think uileann pipes, flute, tin whistle, harp, fiddle, concertina, accordion, sean-nós dancing for the young and not-so-young, and that’s before we get to the sparkling nightlife!

The three hour workshops will take place on Saturday, 4th of February in Newport National School, basic understanding and handling of your instrument is required for the instrument workshops. They are open to all ages and at €15 per person, they represent excellent value for money.

Some of the highlights of the festival include; a strawboy hat making workshop with Edwina McGuckian, Hócaí Cócaí ceoil (for the U5s), Spraoi na nÓg (session and céilí) and the Trad Disco, DJ Ollie Mullolly brings his Trisco to Mayo for the very first time, if you know, you know.

Just as darkness descends in Newport the pubs will explode in a blazing trail of sessions around the town! We are fortunate to be the spiritual home of many critically acclaimed musicians, dancers and singers like; Brian Lennon and his fellow Coda musicians, Atlantic Rhythm (of Ireland’s Got Talent and Toy Show fame), An Caomh Rua, Liam Scanlon, Julie Langan to name but a few. Many of these talented stars will be on hand for some serious craic agus ceoil in various venues around the town!

But who was John McFadden? He was a renowned musician and composer - the Mozart/Ed Sheeran of the traditional music world. No matter where you travel in the world, if you play trad - you will know his name and his music. Some of his most famous pieces are ‘The Newport Lass’ and ‘Swallow’s Tail’. Please visit our website www.johnmcfadden.org for more information on the man, the myth and the legend!

The weekend promises to be a veritable smorgasbord of Irish culture and heritage. Booking is essential as spaces are limited!