Belfast TradFest announces over 370 events ahead its return next month

Organisers have shared the programme for Belfast TradFest, running from 21-28 July, 2024. Over 370 events are set to take place as the festival returns for its sixth annual iteration.

The Belfast Summer School of Traditional Music in partnership with Ulster University is the hub around which the festival is built. It will host a 5-day long programme consisting of masterclasses, talks, workshops, demonstrations, instrument clinics and film screenings.

This year’s line-up of tutors features no less than seven previous TG4 Gradam Ceoil Award recipients and amongst the list of world class talent will be Ceoltóir na Bliaina Derek Hickey, Tyrone’s Ryan Molloy,  Mary Bergin & Mick O’Brien, acclaimed Belfast composer and musician Neil Martin, Co. Kerry’s Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, banjo maestro Cathal Hayden, Tara Breen of The Chieftains, Cross Border Orchestra Bagpiper Grahame Harris, Sean Nós dancing dynamo Mary McGuiggan & Belfast’s very own set dancing master Ronán Eastwood. The Summer School is designed not only to hone technical skills but also to immerse attendees in the cultural and historical context of the music.

 

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The TITANIC CÉILÍ will take place on opening weekend as a free, one day outdoor family event on, celebrating traditional music, song, and dance at the Titanic Slipways on Belfast’s Maritime Mile.

 The music stage will feature All-Ireland champions The Blackwater Céilí Band, Rosie Stewart, Jack Warnock, Belfast Wren Boys Cleamairí Feirste, Ards CCÉ, Major Sinclair Memorial Pipe Band and Glengormley School of Traditional Music.

The event includes an outdoor Céilí, with sets such as The Waves of Tory and Siege of Ennis, called by dance master Ronán Eastwood.

Tickets are available now at belfasttraditionalmusic.com.