September seems to be the new "it" month for festivals in Drogheda, with another stellar event returning to join the line up this year. Boyne Tradfest returns to Drogheda this 19th to 21st of September and promises a weekend of workshops, trad sessiona, recitals, performances and session trails throughout the town.
Drogheda is the perfect location for traditional music in Ireland, having hosted Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2018 & 2019, and been the home to the Leinster Fleadh earlier this summer, Drogheda’s traditional Irish music scene has grown from strength to strength.
Boyne TradFest welcomes artists and visitors from across the country for an exciting weekend of traditional Irish music & song!
With over 50+ musicians performing as part of Boyne TradFest, its sure to be an incredible weekend of trad music.
One of the highlights of this years Boyne Tradfest lineup is sure to be Damien Mullane & Nós Nua Youth Trad Orchestra with Seán O’ Meara & Conor Broderick on Saturday 20th September. Damien Mullane is a powerhouse of raw talent, technical mastery, and musical artistry.
He boasts a musical résumé that would rival that of any seasoned performer. Celebrated as a virtuoso with a distinctive avant-garde flair, he has earned multiple All-Ireland titles on both the accordion and melodeon. His professional journey began with De Dannann, yet his talent has since graced some of the world’s most iconic stages, including Carnegie Hall, Slane Castle, Electric Picnic, and Glastonbury. Over the years, he has played for a host of distinguished figures, including U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, Prince Albert of Monaco, former Irish President Mary Robinson, and current President Michael D. Higgins.
The Nós Nua Youth Trad Orchestra — an inspiring 60-piece ensemble formed through the dynamic collaboration between Music Generation Louth and the Oriel Centre at Dundalk Gaol — proudly presents their latest work, featuring powerful original compositions and innovative arrangements that revitalize Ireland’s rich traditional music heritage.
Comprising talented young musicians from across the Oriel region—Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Cavan, and Armagh—this exceptional group has been mentored by renowned composers and musicians, including most recently Dr. Ryan Molloy and Fergal Scahill.
For the full festival line-up and more information, please visit boynetradfest.ie
