Gala Concert

Liam O’Connor and Cormac Begley are two of Ireland’s leading traditional musicians, celebrated for their distinctive styles and deep connection to place and tradition. Together, they create a compelling musical experience, blending expressive fiddle playing with the rich rhythms of the concertina, and their latest recording, Into the Loam, highlights their shared musical vision and deep-rooted connection to the tradition.

Liam O’Connor, from Dublin, is one of Ireland’s most acclaimed fiddle players. A winner of the Senior All-Ireland Fiddle Championship, he is known for his lyrical, fluid style and deep understanding of Irish music. His solo album The Loom was named Trad Album of the Year 2017 by The Irish Times, and he was nominated for Best Folk Instrumentalist at the 2018 RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards. Liam has performed with leading musicians including Liam O’Flynn, Noel Hill, Tony MacMahon, Seán McKeon, and Cormac Begley, and serves as musical director for projects with the Irish Traditional Music Archive.

Hailing from West Kerry, Cormac Begley is a master of the concertina, performing on bass to piccolo instruments with emotive power and rhythmic drive. His innovative style, rich family heritage, and collaborations across genres make his performances immersive and inspiring, cementing his place as one of Ireland’s foremost traditional musicians.

Featuring Cathal O’Hayden on fiddle and banjo, and Seamie O’Dowd on guitar and vocals, Máirtín O’Connor leads a powerhouse ensemble, combining mastery, creativity, and deep respect for Irish tradition.

The Máirtín O’Connor Band has been performing together since 2001, building a reputation for exceptional musicianship and remarkable interplay. Seamlessly moving between original compositions and traditional tunes, the trio delivers performances that are both electrifying and emotionally resonant, offering audiences a vibrant and unforgettable musical experience. Their weekend visit to Limerick also includes masterclasses for young musicians in collaboration with Music Generation Limerick County.

Máirtín O’Connor, Ireland’s 2015 Traditional Musician of the Year (TG4 Gradam Ceoil), is celebrated for his innovative accordion work with Riverdance, De Dannan, Skylark, and Midnight Well, and as a solo performer. Cathal O’Hayden, multiple All-Ireland champion and founding member of Four Men and a Dog, is renowned for his extraordinary fiddle and banjo playing. Seamie O’Dowd, accomplished guitarist, fiddler, and songwriter, has collaborated with legends including Christy Moore, The Chieftains, and Martin Hayes, bringing depth and nuance to the trio’s sound.