TG4 traditional musical series to come from Mayo this weekend

Ceolaireacht, with presenter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin, will come from Mayo this Sunday (January 28), airing at 9.30 p.m. on TG4.

Armed with her fiddle and bicycle, Doireann embarks on another musical journey, exploring lesser-known traditional musical strongholds across Ireland and beyond.

While Sliabh Luachra, Co. Clare, and Donegal are famous for their recognisable regional styles, Doireann is determined to uncover emerging uncelebrated styles in other parts of the country, such as north Mayo as well as north Tipperary, Cork city and even London.

Ceolaireacht (Musical Wanderings) reflects the current renaissance of traditional Irish music, which is experiencing a flourishing resurgence throughout the country and beyond.

Particularly noteworthy is the growing interest and innovation among the younger generation. Traditional music, once confined to small pockets, is now thriving and captivating a whole new audience.

In north Mayo, Doireann will meet local musicians Angela Deane, Séamus Ó Mongáin, Joe Carey, Liam McGonigle, Seamus Deane, Astrid Ní Mhongáin and Joanna Ní Mháille as she learns about the rich cultural and musical heritage of the area.

Doireann commenced her journey last week, with the first episode coming from London – a city steeped in Irish musical history due to the migration waves during the '50s and '80s. Meeting with key figures such as Reg Hall, instrumental in the iconic recording 'Paddy in the Smoke' that captured London's music scene in 1968, and connecting with young musicians like Eimear McGeown and Rita Farrell, Doireann explored the vibrant intersection of classical and traditional music.

A visit to the renowned Irish pub Brendan the Navigator introduced her to Seáinín Phat Mhaidhle from Conamara and James Óg Carty, a talented fiddle player from the musical Carty family of Roscommon.

Doireann criss-crosses the country after her trip to Mayo and explores the traditional music styles of the current generation in north Tipperary and Cork. Conversations with a diverse array of musicians and singers, including Jackie Daly, Matt Cranitch, Laoise Ni Chinnéide, Gerry O’Connor, Julie Langan, Keelan McGrath, Joe Carey, Liam Mac Congail and vocalists Con Fada Ó Drisceoil, Astrid Ní Mhongáin and Cáit Ní Riain, provide insights into the regional styles of their respective areas.

Directed by Feilimí O’Connor and produced by Edel Ní Churraoin, experience the best of music and song as Doireann Ní Ghlacáin leads this exciting new series of Ceolaireacht. The series is produced by Aniar TV for TG4.