Sean Maguire Ómós

The Seán Maguire Tribute Concert

Celebrating the life, music and legacy of one of Ireland's most influential fiddle players, this special concert honours Seán Maguire, the Belfast-born virtuoso whose dazzling technique, musical imagination and unmistakable style transformed Irish traditional fiddle playing.

A musician who refused to be confined by convention, Maguire combined deep respect for tradition with an adventurous spirit that continually expanded its possibilities. His playing was sophisticated, expressive and innovative, captivating audiences while challenging assumptions about what traditional music could be.

This concert brings together an extraordinary line-up of artists who share Maguire's appetite for creativity, nuance and musical exploration.

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Featured Artists

Dezi Donnelly

Manchester-based fiddle player Dezi Donnelly is one of the most dynamic performers of his generation and a former All-Ireland Young Traditional Musician of the Year.

A founding member of Toss the Feathers, he has collaborated with artists including Sharon Shannon and Michael McGoldrick, while his acclaimed album Familiar Footsteps is widely regarded as a modern traditional music classic.

Bríd Harper

From near Castlefinn in County Donegal, Bríd Harper is one of the most respected fiddle players in Irish traditional music.

An All-Ireland champion and winner of the Fiddler of Dooney and Oireachtas na Gaeilge titles, she is celebrated for her deeply expressive Donegal style and has performed internationally for decades.

Cathal Hayden

Widely recognised as one of Ireland's foremost fiddle and banjo players, Cathal Hayden is an All-Ireland champion on both instruments and a long-standing member of Four Men and a Dog.

His powerful playing and international touring career have made him one of the best-known figures in contemporary traditional music.

Nollaig Casey

One of Ireland's most gifted and versatile musicians, Nollaig Casey moves effortlessly between traditional and classical music.

A founding member of Coolfin and long-time collaborator with Dónal Lunny, she has worked with artists including Enya, Van Morrison and Sinéad O'Connor, and has contributed to numerous recordings and film scores.

Brian Conway (MC)

Renowned Irish-American fiddler Brian Conway will host the evening.

Based in New York, Conway is internationally respected for his masterful Sligo-style playing, combining technical brilliance with a profound understanding of the tradition.

Kathleen Boyle

Glasgow-born Kathleen Boyle comes from a family deeply rooted in the Donegal tradition and is an All-Ireland champion on piano accordion.

A member of Cherish the Ladies since 2005, she has performed throughout the world at many of the most prestigious venues and festivals.

Seamie O'Dowd

Singer, multi-instrumentalist and composer Seamie O'Dowd has spent more than four decades performing, recording and teaching.

A former member of Dervish, he has collaborated with artists including Christy Moore and The Chieftains, and is admired for his versatility across traditional, folk and contemporary music.

Johnny Murphy & The Northern Counties Fiddle Society

Led by renowned teacher and violin maker Johnny Murphy, a pupil of Seán Maguire himself, the Northern Counties Fiddle Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the distinctive fiddle traditions of North Antrim.

With a strong cross-community ethos, the group brings together musicians of all ages and backgrounds while nurturing the next generation of fiddle players.

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Honouring a Musical Pioneer

More than a remembrance, this concert is a celebration of the values that defined Seán Maguire's career: musical curiosity, individuality and a willingness to explore new possibilities while remaining rooted in tradition.

Expect an evening of extraordinary fiddling, from moments of lyrical beauty to exhilarating displays of virtuosity, performed by artists who continue to shape the future of Irish traditional music.

A fitting tribute to a pioneering Belfast musician whose influence continues to resonate throughout the traditional music world.