The best of music from Tipperary shines on the national TV stage

TG4’s traditional musical series, ‘Ceolaireacht’ (Musical Wanderings), with presenter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin, came from the heart of Tipperary last week and what a show it was once again from the highways and byways of the county.

Armed with her fiddle and bicycle, Doireann embarked on another musical journey, exploring lesser-known traditional musical strongholds across Ireland and beyond. The show is a big hit so far.

While Sliabh Luachra, county Clare, and Donegal are famous for their recognisable regional styles, Doireann is always determined to uncover emerging uncelebrated styles in other parts of the country, such as the heartlands of Tipperary, Cork City, Mayo, and even London.

The series reflects the current renaissance of Traditional Irish Music, experiencing a flourishing resurgence throughout the country and beyond. Particularly noteworthy is the growing interest and innovation among the younger generation. Traditional music, once confined to small pockets, is now thriving and captivating a whole new audience.

Recently the show came from Tipperary where she explored the area’s regional style with music from Gerry ‘Banjo’ O’Connor & family, the McGraths, Costello’s, Laoise Ní Chinnéide, Jim Ryan and Cáith Ní Riain, Mairéad O’Brien & more.

Doireann commenced her journey last month with the first episode coming from London, a city steeped in Irish musical history due to the migration waves during the 50s and 80s. Meeting with key figures such as Reg Hall, instrumental in the iconic recording ‘Paddy in the Smoke’ capturing London’s music scene in 1968, and connecting with young musicians like Eimear McGeown and Rita Farrell, Doireann explored the vibrant intersection of classical and traditional music.

A visit to the renowned Irish pub, Brendan the Navigator, introduced her to Seáinín Phat Mhaidhle from Conamara and James Óg Carty, a talented fiddle player from the musical Carty family of Roscommon.

In the second episode Doireann headed west to North Mayo where she had conversations with a diverse array of musicians and singers, including Angela Deane, Séamus Ó Mongáin, Joe Carey, Liam McGonigle, Seamus Deane, Astrid Ní Mhongáin & Joanna Ní Mháille. She was told of the rich cultural and musical heritage of the area.

On her trip to Tipperary in the recent offering, Doireann explored the traditional music styles of the current generation and the viewers were treated to great tunes in great settings. The tradition is alive and well in Tipp.

Directed by Feilimí O’Connor and produced by Edel Ní Churraoin, this television show allows you experience the best of music and song as Doireann Ní Ghlacáin takes a journey with open eyes on this series of ‘Ceolaireacht,’

If you missed it check out the TG4 website to find out how to watch back the show. ‘Ceolaireacht’ is produced by Aniar TV for TG4.