TG4's Geantraí coming from famed John V Donohoe's in Granard, county Longford on Sunday night
This new series, hosted by acclaimed singer Pauline Scanlon, takes viewers on a nationwide musical journey
Geantraí, the beloved Irish traditional music series, returns for its 19th season with a fresh approach, capturing the rich musical landscape of Ireland like never before.
This new series, hosted by acclaimed singer Pauline Scanlon, takes viewers on a nationwide journey from Donegal to Cork, showcasing the wealth of musical talent that thrives in the country’s most intimate and hidden venues.
Sunday, February 9 sees Geantraí coming to you from John V Donohoe's in Granard, Co Longford.
The programme features sublime music from Elaine Reilly, Daithí Gormley, Noel Sweeney, Aoibhinn Lynch, Johnny Duffy, Nuala Donlon and Noel Carberry. Presented by Pauline Scanlon.
The 13-episode series kicked off in Leitrim last Sunday at the famed Cryan's Pub in Carrick-on-Shannon, known for its vibrant traditional music scene, especially its remarkable flute players.
Pauline will travel across Ireland, from Kilcar in Donegal, to the Midlands to Mayo, Limerick, and Cork, visiting lesser-known hotspots where local talent flourishes in the heart of the Irish session tradition.
The series highlights newly composed tunes and songs, offering viewers a tantalizing taste of Ireland’s evolving musical landscape every Sunday evening.
“Geantraí has always been about the living tradition of Irish music.
This series continues to celebrate that, bringing the music and its creators into the spotlight,” said Scanlon. “We’ve focused on capturing not just the music, but the environments where these sessions happen—places where the heart of Irish culture beats strongest.”
The new series is both a continuation of Geantraí’s legacy and a fresh reinvigoration of the beloved programme.
For 16 years, Geantraí served as a platform for countless Irish musicians, and this new series promises to highlight the continued vibrancy of traditional music in communities across Ireland. Filmed in relaxed pub sessions and intimate settings,
Geantraí presents the music at its purest capturing the deep connection between performers and their audience.
“Geantraí has always been about community and connection, particularly between the musicians and their listeners,” said Paschal Cassidy, Director of Hedgerow Films, taking the helm of the series after a long history with the programme.
“Through modern film and audio technology, we’re capturing that magic in a way that will resonate with both traditionalists and new audiences alike.”