OCarolans legacy echoes through packed week of music in Keadue – Leitrim Live

The sound of harp strings and traditional reels is once again echoing through the village of Keadue as the 47th O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School brings musicians, dancers and music lovers together for a week-long celebration of Irish culture.

Running from July 28 to August 4, the festival pays tribute to the life and legacy of Turlough O’Carolan (1670–1738), the blind harper and composer often regarded as Ireland’s last great bard. This year’s programme features a rich blend of concerts, workshops, and cultural events set against the scenic backdrop of north Roscommon.

Festival highlights include a special recital of O’Carolan’s compositions performed by acclaimed harpers Fiachra Guihen, Mossie Martin, Emma Benson, Micheál Fitzgibbon, and the Daly sisters. A standout event, Harps Together—a collaboration with Harp Ireland—takes place tonight (Friday, August 1), featuring performances from Anne-Marie O’Farrell, Cormac De Barra, and Laoise Kelly.

On Sunday, August 3, folk legend Seán Keane and his band are set to take the stage in one of the most anticipated concerts of the week.

Beyond performance, the Summer School offers daily masterclasses and workshops for all skill levels in instruments such as the harp, fiddle, tin whistle, flute, accordion, and bodhrán. Dance enthusiasts can take part in set dancing and sean-nós classes, while visitors also have the chance to honour O’Carolan at his gravesite with a wreath-laying ceremony at Kilronan Abbey.

“The goal has always been to promote awareness and knowledge of O’Carolan’s musical legacy,” said Declan Noone, chair of the organising committee. “This festival not only honours his memory but keeps his music alive for generations to come.”

Founded in 1978, the festival has grown into a cornerstone of Irish traditional music, attracting global talent and passionate audiences to the quiet village where O’Carolan’s genius first took root. His resting place overlooking Lough Meelagh remains a symbolic heart of the celebration.

For a full programme of events or to book tickets, visit www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie.