Cork Folk Fest gets official launch
Leeside folk fans are buzzing this week after full details of the 46th Cork Folk Festival were revealed.
From 1-5 October, hundreds of the finest traditional and folk musicians in the country will gather in Cork to deliver a massive programme of free and ticketed events across city.
This year there will be a special focus on traditional Irish instruments the concertina, the uilleann pipes, flutes, and accordions.
Festival goers with see The Irish Concertina Orchestra perform with 60 players at MTU School of Music, as well as performances on uilleann pipes and Galicia pipes (traditional bagpipes from northern Portugal). Also set to make an appearance in concert is master flute player Matt Molloy of The Chieftains.
One of the big highlights confirmed this year is Jackie Daly at the Triskel. Jackie will be celebrating his 80th birthday year at a special concert curated by Jackie and Matt Cranitch. Also keep an eye out for concerts with flute player Matt Molloy, singer Niamh Parsons, guitar player Seamie O’ Dowd, piper Peter Browne, and singer-songwriter Trish Reilly.
This year’s programme also features concerts at the Triskel with the band Flook who are celebrating 30 years on the road.
Other acts confirmed are Belfast Band Craobh Rua, North Cregg, Lee Valley String Band, The Oars, Two Time Polka, Leonard Barry, Andy Morrow, Mary Greene, Gals at Play, and the legendary band Shaskeen.
International guests this year include Lisa Knapp & Gerry Diver (UK), Alexandre Cadarso Suárez (Galicia), and William Jack (Australia).
Speaking ahead of the festival’s official launch on Tuesday, festival chairman Jim Walsh said: “The festival’s aim is to entice audiences to Cork to immerse themselves in a weekend of folk and traditional music, song, and dance.”
Overall, 35 events featuring 200 musicians will take place across 15 venues over the five day festival. The festival will also feature session performances, CD and book launches, a fascinating walking tour through Cork city, music classes, and a number of céilís and openair events.
The 46th Cork Folk Festival is funded by the Cork City Council Arts Committee, The Arts Council, and Fáilte Ireland.
For booking and to see the full programme, visit corkfolkfestival.com.