Derek Hickey, Doireann Ní Ghríofa & Steve Cooney

One of Ireland’s most respected poets Doireann Ní Ghríofa makes her first appearance at Masters of Tradition alongside guitarist Steve Cooney and accordion player Derek Hickey. This  unmissable performance takes place in the elegant library of Bantry House, overlooking Bantry Bay.

“Doireann Ní Ghríofa is a well-known poet in the English and Irish language. She comes from Co. Clare. Over the last few years we have introduced poetry into the festival. Of course, there is an ancient connection between poetry and music. Much of the poetry of the ancient world was recited to the accompaniment of lyres, harps and a variety of other instruments over time. Steve Cooney is Masters of Tradition’s resident guitarist as he has played at each of the nineteen festivals and is a true Master of the tradition. Derek Hickey is a wonderful accordion player who has found a freedom in the music, a freedom we’re all looking for when we play this music. The freedom to take a flight of fancy in the middle of a tune and to take it in a slightly different direction and then knit our way back into it. At the higher levels of traditional music, there is a natural place for improvisation. Derek is able to play the tunes with a free flow and expression which is really wonderful.”  Martin Hayes