Following a call for applications earlier this year, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and Music Network have announced traditional flute-player Iarlaith Mac Gabhann as Emerging Musician-in-Residence 2021. He is the first of three Musicians-in-Residence for 2021 and began his six week residency on 19 May. 

During the residency, Mac Gabhann will use archival material to investigate tunes by lesser-known musicians associated with the North Connacht flute tradition. In addition, he will work with Michael Tubridy – flute-player and founding member of The Chieftains – to document his experience in music as well as his knowledge of traditional music and dance, with a focus on Dublin-based flute players.

Throughout the residency, Mac Gabhann will provide updates through the social media channels of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and Music Network. The residency will conclude with a public performance in late summer or early autumn, of material collected during his research. 

Commenting on the news, Mac Gabhann said: 

It is an honour and a privilege to be awarded the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Emerging Musician-in-Residence 2021, particularly during what is a barren period for many artists. What I’m most looking forward to during the residency period is delving further into historical archival material such as recordings, as well as engaging with key local musicians of the older generation, to develop and hone my flute playing, while also increasing my understanding of the music in its broader context.

From Churchtown in Dublin, Mac Gabhann studied with Harry Bradley as a teenager and is also influenced by flute-players such as John McKenna, Tom Morrison, Packie Duignan, Patsy Hanly, Séamus Tansey and Roger Sherlock. He has performed at festivals including the Cruinniú na Bhfliúit Showcase in 2019 and has taught at a range of festivals including Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Brittany. Mac Gabhann is a member of the band Nuadán, who released their album Dén Díobháil in November 2019. 

For more, visit: www.dlrcoco.ie.