Masters of Tradition: the pure heart of Irish traditional music
The Masters of Tradition festival is a lens through which travellers can see into the musical soul of Ireland.
Martin Hayes, Masters of Tradition, 2024
Curated by world-famous fiddler Martin Hayes, Masters of Tradition (20–24 August) is a unique festival experience that combines music, history, storytelling and place. At its heart is authenticity and connection through a celebration of the masters of traditional Irish music who can evoke a world of emotion through their artistry.
Taking place in the picturesque coastal town of Bantry, County Cork, the festival presents over 20 performances by renowned masters of the form and those who are evolving the genre through their unique interpretations of Irish traditional music.
Many of the headline performances, including those by Martin Hayes’ ensemble, take place in the elegant rooms of Bantry House, one of Ireland’s most exquisite historic mansions. St Brendan’s Church and the Marino Church also provide wonderful settings for the sublime music of artists like Dave Flynn and Des Gerrihy, while the Maritime Hotel is another venue carefully chosen for its acoustics, character, and ability to create atmosphere.
Bantry House and Gardens, Bantry, Co Cork
As well as concerts, there are a number of ‘in conversation’ events which will see Martin Hayes talk to musicians, poets and composers exploring music, creativity, tradition, philosophy and history.
This year for the first time the festival will host a series of cross-cultural performances featuring guest artists from Scotland, the Basque Country, and Appalachia, highlighting the shared roots and evolving dialogues between folk traditions globally. There will also be daily artist-led talks, masterclasses, and panel discussions open to the public.
The settings, the artists and the choice of music, which is performed in an intimate, unplugged format that strips it back to its essence, allows for a rare level of emotional connection between performer and audience. This is a contemplative experience perfect for those seeking cultural depth and meaningful artistic expression.
Hayes describes the music at Masters of Tradition as the most authentic form of Irish traditional music, saying “In its purest form it speaks a universal language”.
For those who cannot make this year’s festival, this unique musical experience can still be sampled as select performances will be livestreamed for international audiences. Those who can attend will enjoy not only sublime music and cultural insights but also the legendary west Cork welcome.
Bantry Town, Co Cork
In between concerts, festival goers can explore Bantry town on a heritage walk, take a boat out on to the bay or go further afield to discover more of what west Cork has to offer including its famous artisan food scene.