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Belfast TradFest, now in its sixth year, returns from July 21 to 28, offering a week-long celebration of traditional music, dance, and culture. This vibrant festival features a summer school, concerts, album launches, céilís, and a session trail, making it a must-attend event for enthusiasts of Irish and Scottish traditions.
Summer School
The festival’s summer school is a highlight, providing masterclasses for participants of all ages and skill levels. Held at Ulster University from Monday to Friday, the summer school covers various instruments, singing, and dancing. Renowned tutors include Mary Bergin, Joanie Madden, Derek Hickey, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Ryan Molloy, Zoë Conway, Tara Breen, Mick O’Brien, Cathal Hayden, Padraig Rynne, and Aisling Lyons.
Specialized classes feature unique instruments and styles:
- Cello with Neil Martin
- Sean Nós Singing with Diane Cannon
- Snare Drum with Mark Wilson
- Smallpipes with Fin Moore
- Bagpipes with Grahame Harris
- Sean Nós Dancing with Mary McGuiggan
- Bodhrán with Aimée Farrell Courtney and Robbie Harris
- Flute with Kevin Crawford, Catherine McEvoy, and Gary Hastings
Set dancing classes are available throughout the week. Booking for the summer school can be done through the festival’s website.
Concerts and Album Launches
The festival kicks off on July 21 with an opening concert at the Empire Music Hall, featuring Moya Brennan, Zoë Conway, and John McIntyre. Highlights of the concert schedule include:
- July 22: Flutopia at the Black Box, and performances by Diane Cannon, Mick O’Brien, Derek Hickey, Ryan Molloy, Lorraine Ní Bhriain, and George McAdam.
- July 23: Na Máistrí / Masters Of Traditional Music concert and a tribute concert dedicated to Seán Maguire.
- July 24: A concert at Crescent Arts Centre celebrating the Belfast Harpers Assembly of 1792, and performances by Bow Brothers, Mary Dillon, Dónal O’Connor, and Neil Martin.
- July 25: “With Pipe and Drum” concert at the Titanic Hotel, Lúnasa, and Seamie O’Dowd.
- July 26: Jiggy, and a performance by Tara Breen, Pádraig Rynne, and Jim Murray.
- July 27: Cherish the Ladies.
Additional notable events include a Solo Highland Piping Competition on July 21, album launches by Conor Caldwell and Ryan Molloy, and traditional singer and poet Paddy Tunney on July 27.
Céilís and Session Trail
The festival also features a traditional sessions trail in pubs and venues across Belfast, providing an authentic Irish cultural experience. Céilís include the Titanic Slipway Céilí on July 21 and a Pride Céilí at the Black Box on July 24. Festival club gigs will be hosted at the John Hewitt Bar and The Deer’s Head, ensuring the festivities continue late into the night.
For more information and booking details, visit the official Belfast TradFest website at www.belfasttraditionalmusic.com. Join in celebrating the rich traditions of Irish and Scottish music and dance at this unforgettable festival.
