The Belfast Harp Festival of 1792, was a landmark event in the preservation and revival of the tradition of Irish harp music, which was in danger of disappearing. Organized by a group of merchant class Presbyterians, including Dr. James McDonnell and Henry Joy McCracken, the festival brought together ten of the last remaining Irish harpers, many of whom were elderly and blind. These harpers included renowned figures such as Denis Hempson and Arthur O’Neill.
The task of transcribing and documenting the music played by the harpers, was undertaken by Edward Bunting, a young organist in Belfast Cathedral. Bunting meticulously recorded the melodies and techniques, ensuring that the rich heritage of Irish harp music would not be lost to future generations.
The Harp Festival was more than a musical event; it was a cultural renaissance that celebrated and safeguarded our musical heritage. It highlighted the artistry and significance of the Irish harp, inspiring subsequent generations to appreciate and continue this vital cultural tradition which is celebrated in this concert.
Catríona McKay (harp)
Hailing from Dundee, Catriona McKay is a fearless explorer of the Scottish harp who is widely recognised for her dynamic musicianship and innovative rhythm harp style. Her acclaimed composition Swan LK243 has gone on to be played and recorded by musicians worldwide.
Ciara Ní Thath (harp)
Originally from county Meath, Ciara Ní Thath first began performing with the Meath Harp ensemble. Since then, she has performed, both as a soloist and alongside other musicians, throughout Ireland and Europe.
Gráinne Hambly (harp)
Gráinne Hambly hails from county Mayo and has become an internationally recognised exponent of the Irish harp. Known for the sensitivity and expressive quality of her air-playing, as well as her dynamic performance of dance tunes, Gráinne’s playing illustrates the full range and scope of this instrument.
Ciara McCrickard (Singing/MC)
A native of Castlewellan, County Down, and steeped in the Ulster singing tradition, Ciara McCrickard is a traditional singer and fiddle player. Raised in a musical family, she draws deep influence from renowned singers like Roisin White and Cathal McConnell. She was a member of the acclaimed group At First Light. Ciara specialises in unaccompanied sean nós singing, a style she has studied extensively and performed with acclaim across Ireland and beyond.
Jack Talty (concertina)
Hailing from county Clare, Jack Talty is a multi-award-winning musician, composer, producer, and researcher who has travelled across the globe and contributed to over 80 albums to date. Jack is a founding member of acclaimed septet, Ensemble Éiru who were awarded the prestigious Gradam Comharcheol TG4 (2015).
Music Generation Harp Collective (harp)
The Music Generation Harp Collective is a creative collaboration of harp ensembles from Music Generations Laois, Louth, Mayo and Waterford who perform as a collective for special events. They are delighted to showcase “Lá na Seacht Síon” which is music they created under the creative leadership of Co. Antrim harper and composer Grainne Meyer. Co-funded by Music Generation/Arts Council of Ireland and the Department of Education.
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