De Dannan's Derek Hickey to receive Gradam Ceoil TG4 in Limerick

The 27^th iteration of the Gradam Ceoil TG4 will take place at the The University Concert Hall Limerick on Sunday, 5 May.

This year sees Derek Hickey taking home the main Gradam Ceoil (musician of the year) prize. The accordion player hails from Adare, Co. Limerick and began his professional career at the age of 15 when he joined the Shannonside Céilí Band, touring extensively across the UK and Europe.

In 1995 he joined De Dannan, recording two albums and touring until they disbanded in 2003. He's the now the button accordion tutor on the BA Irish Music and Dance at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick.

 

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Elsewhere, Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin, Macdara Ó Faoláin, Jean Butler, Ryan Molloy, The Kane Sisters and Cairdeas na bhFidiléirí will also be picking up accolades across the various other categories.

The annual ceremony recognises the achievements of the “absolute best in performance and cultural impact”. The selection process for Gradam Ceoil TG4 recipients is undertaken by an independent panel, some of whom are past awardees and all of whom play or work within the tradition.

“TG4 is delighted to be afforded this opportunity to recognise these stars that shine bright within our tradition,”  said TG4 Commissioning Editor, Proinsias Ní Ghráinne.

“Gradam is a token of gratitude from us to the many performances who grace our traditional music programs week in, week out.  We are delighted that we can help bring their music to global audiences through the live broadcast of Gradam Ceoil 2024 on TG4’s broadcast platforms. Comhghairdeas leis na faighteoirí uilig.””