Ancient Irish harp music to be reimagined at Wicklow venue
Some of Ireland's most celebrated musicians in traditional, classical, and early music join forces with award-winning visual artists to present Ceol Ársa Cláirsí – a concert experience that is both musically and visually immersive.
This unique event showcases Irish harp music by composers such as Turlough Carolan, Thomas Connellan, and Ruairí Dall Ó Catháin, with historically informed arrangements drawn from original Irish and Scottish sources. Audiences will experience the rich sounds of gut-and wire-strung instruments of the period blended seamlessly with traditional instruments and, of course, the Irish harp.
The music will be accompanied by striking and atmospheric video imagery.
The line-up of musicians on the night includes Cormac Breatnach, an acclaimed whistle player deeply rooted in the Irish tradition, who has performed and recorded with a wide range of artists including Elvis Costello, Vanessa Williams, Donal Lunny, and Susan McKeown.
Originally from Australia, Dr Steve Cooney is one of the most influential musicians in modern Irish traditional music. A guitarist, composer, producer, and didgeridoo player, he has collaborated with Mary Black, Altan, Martin Hayes, Séamus Begley and many more.
Aisling Ennis is a leading Irish harpist known for her expressive and versatile performance style. She has trained at the Royal Academy of Music, Guildhall School, RIAM, and holds a Master's in Arts Management from UCD.
Malachy Robinson is principal double bass with the Irish Chamber Orchestra since 1995, Malachy is also a member of Crash Ensemble and the Irish Baroque Orchestra. He performs regularly on viola da gamba and is a noted interpreter of contemporary Irish music.
Dr Eamon Sweeney is a specialist in early plucked-string instruments. He studied classical guitar at TU Dublin and early music in Barcelona. His extensive performance and teaching career includes collaborations with figures such as the late Seamus Heaney, Mary Coughlan, and Theo Dorgan.
Tickets are available through mermaidartscentre.ie priced €22.
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