Céilí House Celebrates Offaly's Rich Musical Heritage in Tullamore Recording

RTÉ Radio 1's Céilí House was in John Lee's, Tullamore recording two programmes of traditional music, song and conversation celebrating the musical heritage of County Offaly. The first programme will be aired on Saturday October 3rd, 9pm, RTÉ Radio 1. 

Recorded in the welcoming surroundings of John Lee's Pub, Tullamore, this special programme brings together some of Offaly's finest traditional musicians, singers and performers for an evening that highlights the county's enduring contribution to Irish traditional music.

At the heart of the programme is Attracta Brady, President of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and daughter of renowned Offaly musician and composer John Brady. Throughout the evening, Attracta shares memories of growing up in a household steeped in music, reflects on her lifelong commitment to traditional arts, and discusses her vision for the future of Comhaltas.

The programme features performances from a stellar line-up including Roisín O'Connor, Ned O'Connor, Willie Holmes, Bairbre Uí Theighneáin, Sharon Carroll, Fiadhna Leamy, Sean Browne, and Noel Stapleton, alongside members of the extended Brady and Brennan musical families.

Listeners can look forward to a rich selection of hornpipes, jigs, reels, songs and mouth organ music, including compositions by the late John Brady, whose influence on Offaly's musical tradition continues to be felt through generations of musicians.

A particular treat for listeners will be the chance to hear Attracta Brady not only in conversation but in performance. Widely respected as a musician, teacher and cultural leader, Attracta takes her place among family members and fellow performers throughout the evening, bringing to life the music of her father John Brady and showcasing the musical tradition that has been at the centre of her life since childhood.

The recording also shines a light on the close connections between music, language and culture in the Midlands, featuring Irish language conversation and song, including a performance from acclaimed singer Bairbre Uí Theighneáin, whose family roots and teaching work maintain strong links with Offaly's musical community.  

Presented by Tristan Rosenstock, this special edition of Céilí House captures the warmth, talent and tradition that continue to make Offaly a vibrant centre of Irish traditional music.

Programme No 2 from Lee's in Tullamore will air on October 31st on RTÉ Radio 1.

Johh especially thanks all the musicians and singers who took part in the recordings and Martina McGlynn and Tristan from RTÉ for keeping things running smoothly.

Listen back on https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/ceili-house/ or listen live on https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/

Photography: Ciara Kinnarney