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Author: Breffni Banks

Sean McCarthy Ballad Competition: Call for Entries

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in Industry News.

The Sean McCarthy Ballad Competition is now open for entries, inviting talented songwriters and performers to showcase their skills in the heart of Co. Kerry.

This Sean McCarthy Weekend, which takes place this August (2nd – 5th), is an event which aims to promote Irish music, culture, and the legacy of the legendary songwriter Sean McCarthy. The annual ballad competition is one of the highlights of their calendar, attracting talented musicians and enthusiasts from near and far.

Applications are now available to download here.

To participate in the competition, interested individuals are requested to take into account the following rules before submitting their application:

  1. Entries to be received by no later than Friday 19th July at 5pm 2024.
  2. Entries to be submitted on CD with 3 typed copies (or in very clear handwriting). Also your email address.
  3. Entries to be accompanied by cheque/postal order for €25.00. Cheque Or Postal Order made out to the Sean McCarthy Weekend.
  4. No entries will be returned.
  5. Name, address and telephone number to be clearly written on CD cover and back of each copy of lyrics.
  6. Finalists will perform their entry in Teach Siamsa Finuge.
  7. The overall winner and runner-up will be decided then.
  8. Entries may be in English or Irish. One or two musicians only to accompany the performer.
  9. Entries must be original and not previously performed or published.
  10. No in-house music supplied by committee.
  11. No pre-recorded backing music allowed.
  12. Adjudicators’ decision is final. (3 Judges)
  13. Performances on the night of the final may be recorded and /or video @ the Committees discretion. Such recordings may be played /transmitted on the sound and visual media, e.g. radio, television, Internet; entrants are deemed to have given their permission for it unless otherwise indicated by them to the Committee.

Applicants are strongly advised to review the rules, especially Rule No. 9, before submitting their entries.

All entries should be sent to: Peggie O’Connell Irremore, Listowel, Co. Kerry.

For any inquiries regarding the Sean McCarthy Ballad Competition, please contact Bridget O’Connor at 087-6250516 or via email at info@nullfinugeweekend.com

Additional information about the event can be found on the official website: www.finugeweekend.com

IMRO Job Vacancy | Licensing Administrator – Sales Lead Co-Ordinator

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in Featured Articles, Industry News.

Job Title: Licensing Administrator – Sales Lead Co-Ordinator

Salary: On Request

Term: 1 Year Fixed Term Contract

Application: Please send a CV and covering letter (in a word document) outlining how you meet the criteria for the role to hr@nullimro.ie. Deadline for applications is 5 pm Tuesday, 18th June 2024.

IMRO represents songwriters’ composers and music publishers who bring varying backgrounds, ideas, and points of view to their creativity on behalf of all music fans.

Our diverse perspectives are enriched by many dimensions, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, culture, language, and education, as well as professional and life experience.

We welcome job applicants from all communities, cultivating a culture of inclusion for employees and respecting individual strengths, views, and experiences.

Our differences make us a better team – we make better decisions, drive innovation, and deliver better business results.

Purpose of Job

To manage the processing of sales leads, small business licensing packs, and new business contracts from the sales licensing team using IMRO’s bespoke CRM system. Assist licensing with processing direct debit discounts (credit notes) resulting from new business and converting as many customers (new & existing) to sign up to our Customer Portal.

Job Content and Context

The successful candidate will be required to process leads from the Sales Lead Scheme, process Licensing packs for newly identified small businesses around Ireland, and perform quality and legal checks to ensure all signed Dual Music Licence (DML) Contracts are correct and legally binding. They will also ensure all DD’s accompanying the DML are processed with finance and set up for any payment discounts due. They will send all new customers their first invoice and prompt them to sign up for the IMRO Self-Service Portal.

Principal Accountabilities

  • Processing of all Sales Leads (Internal & Membership Schemes).
  • Reporting Monthly on Same.
  • Processing Small Business (Proforma) Packs.
  • Liaising with the Field Team on Packs.
  • Reporting on Success.
  • Ensuring returned DMLs are 100% legally binding by performing a list of checks.
  • Creating, adding notes and adjusting accounts on CRM.
  • Processing all new business DDs.
  • Sending out customer first invoice & assisting Portal sign-up.
  • Assisting Customer First with requests for documentation (statements/invoices).
  • Generating Sales Leads (using MESLIS and other sources).
  • Weekly reporting to the Head of Commercial Licensing.
  • Supporting – when required for the other members of the Licensing Department.
  • Undertaking such other duties as may be assigned by management from time-to-time.

Challenges Faced

The main challenge faced is to ensure all sales leads are processed correctly, all new business packs are sent in a timely and effective manner and all new DMLs are legally binding in case they are ever needed for infringement and or for court review. All checks must be performed, with errors highlighted promptly so that the field/phones teams can get resigned, if necessary, quickly. Attention to detail and the ability to communicate effectively are essential in this role, but all challenges can be overcome with hard work and dedication and by being focused on the tasks at hand.

Knowledge and Experience

A business/admin background, working in a quality and target-orientated environment for at least two years, is essential. A proven track record of working in a high-volume environment is a must and an ability to work to the highest level of quality and have outstanding attention to detail. The job holder must have good interpersonal skills, a passion for customer service, and proficiency in IT.

IMRO Job Vacancy | Licensing Administrator – Customer First

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in Featured Articles, Industry News.

Job Title: Licensing Administrator – Customer First

Salary: On Request

Term: 1 Year Fixed Term Contract

Application: Please send a CV and covering letter (in a word document) outlining how you meet the criteria for the role to hr@nullimro.ie. Deadline for applications is 5 pm Tuesday, 18th June 2024.

IMRO represents songwriters’ composers and music publishers who bring varying backgrounds, ideas, and points of view to their creativity on behalf of all music fans.

Our diverse perspectives are enriched by many dimensions, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, culture, language, and education, as well as professional and life experience.

We welcome job applicants from all communities, cultivating a culture of inclusion for employees and respecting individual strengths, views, and experiences.

Our differences make us a better team – we make better decisions, drive innovation, and deliver better business results.

Purpose of Job

This position within the Licensing Dept. contributes to the company’s overall operation by providing first-class support to customers of the Irish Music Rights Organisation CLG (IMRO). The position is part of the Licensing Department and reports directly to the Head of Commercial Licensing but is under the day-to-day supervision of the Senior Customer First Licensing Administrator.

The Licensing Administrator – Customer First position plays a key role in the Licensing Department, and the position will work closely with and provide support to all customer-facing teams.

Job Content and Context

The Licensing Administrator – Customer First will be one of two staff positions responsible for providing IMRO’s customers with front-line support and resolutions.

Principal Accountabilities

  • Responding to post/correspondence received from customers and providing timely, efficient and comprehensive responses.
  • Responding to all inbound calls that relate to customer queries in a timely, efficient, and comprehensive manner.
  • Responding promptly, efficiently, and comprehensively to all inbound emails and Account / Tariff Queries.
  • Outbound calls – Providing customers with updates on any open queries.
  • Providing declaration forms to customers.
  • Liaising with the Licensing adjustment administrator.
  • Liaising with the field and telesales team – reviewing all open tasks that are with the licensing team and ensuring they are being worked on and the customer is being kept updated.
  • Provision of all paperwork requests – Sending statements and invoices, etc – in a timely, efficient, and comprehensive manner.
  • CRM Task completion and responsibility for providing feedback on the resolution to the customer.
  • Updating CRM with every customer contact is mandatory.
  • Asking for payment from the customer.
  • Signing customers up for direct debits, a DML, and the Portal.
  • Undertaking such other duties as may be assigned by management from time-to-time.

Challenges Faced

The core challenge faced by the Licensing Administrator – Customer First, is consistently striving to provide best-in-class support to the customer. The Licensing Administrator – Customer First resolves this primarily through personal contact and building relationships with customers. (This is supported by the company strategy about forging links with representative groups of music users and the IMRO Customer Charter.) The establishment of a good working relationship with other Licensing Department staff is essential in this regard.

Planning and Organising

The overall planning and setting of priorities is agreed upon by the Licensing Administrator – Customer First, with the Head of Commercial Licensing in the context of the overall targets and daily/weekly/monthly priorities. The Licensing Administrator – Customer First is responsible for the planning and organisation of their day-to-day work.

Knowledge and Experience

A good Leaving Certificate is required; the job holder needs at least two years’ experience in one or more organisations with a large, diversified customer account base. Work experience in a service-based organisation with expertise in customer service, credit control, sales, and billing environments is desirable. The job holder must be computer literate with solid knowledge of MS Office applications, and knowledge of MS Dynamics is an advantage. Initiative, organisational abilities, report writing and correspondence skills with good interpersonal skills are essential characteristics that should be possessed by the individual holding this position. Interaction with staff and management at all organisational levels will be standard. Customer management skills are crucial, alongside an ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines. Having a customer-focused personality and enjoying problem-solving are two significant traits that will help you succeed in this role.

All Together Now Announce Over 50 Artists for the August Bank Holiday Weekend 1-4, Curraghmore Estate, Waterford

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in Industry News.

ALL TOGETHER NOW

A FESTIVAL OF DISCOVERY: MUSIC, ART, FOOD & WELLNESS

Bank Holiday Weekend 1 – 4 August 2024

Curraghmore Estate, Co. Waterford

** THE PRODIGY WILL HEADLINE ATN24 **

** OVER 50 NEW ACTS ANNOUNCED FOR ATN24 **

** TIER 4 WEEKEND TICKETS GO ON SALE THURSDAY, 23 MAY, 9 AM **

** DUE TO PHENOMENAL DEMAND ADDITIONAL CAMPERVAN PASSES GO ON SALE THURSDAY, 23 MAY, 9 AM **

Line-up additions

The Prodigy

Declan McKenna // Gorgon City // The Murder Capital 

Hak Baker // Gemma Dunleavy // Mano Le Tough // Eliza Rose KiNK // SAMA’ Abdulhadi // Nils Hoffman // EFFY // Yung Singh // Optimo Morgana // Susan O’Neill // Cardinals // Aby Coulibaly // HousePlants

New Jackson // SHEE // CHALK //  David Kitt // Niamh Bury // Oisin Leech // Lemoncello // Jealous Of The Birds // Skyrager (Psychemagik) // Niamh Regan

The Devlins // Overhead, The Albatross // BIIRD // QBANAA // Really Good Time // SLOUCHO // Jordan Nocturne // Nealo // MathMan // SHIV // EFÉ // Negro Impacto

Conchúr White //  Ellie O’Neill //  Chris Wong // Cooks But We’re Chefs // Dublin Gospel Choir // Siomha // The Bonk // Toshín // Big Sleep // The Raines // Das Brass // Post Party // First Class & Coach // Hot Girl // Shark School // Sweerlemondae // Uly // Fizzy Orange // Alex Gough // And He, The Fool // OL Times // Still Blue // Sahana // Fynch // EFA O’Neill // Becky + many more!

SPECIAL EVENTS

RTE Concert Orchestra & Guests perform the music of

Sinéad O’Connor, Shane MacGowen & Christy Dignam.

The Wailers 40th ANNIVERSARY OF LEGEND ’Bob Marley & The Wailers’

The Dolly Show – UK’s #1 Dolly Parton Tribute

Tommy Tiernan & Panti Bliss + Guests – ‘Brunch On The Bandstand’

Glasshouse Ensemble perform Ryuichi Sakamoto

Sing Along Social – Saturday afternoon main stage takeover

NEW ADDITIONS

The Prodigy will close the Sunday night of this year’s festival, with their first headline appearance at an Irish festival in 6 years. Declan McKenna joins the lineup following the release of his critically acclaimed album ‘What Happened to the Beach?’ earlier this year. Electronic duo Gorgon City have been added to the bill coming off the back of a world-conquering year following the success of their 2023 album ‘Salvation’ and the recent announcement of their 5th studio album ‘Reverie’. Irish rock band The Murder Capital will headline this year’s ‘Jameson Connects: The Circle’ stage following their recent Choice Music Prize nomination for Irish Album of the Year with ‘Gigi’s Recovery’. Dynamic UK singer-songwriter / rapper Hak Baker is added following the release of his latest hit single ‘Task Master’, with several high-profile festival appearances on the cards this summer for the London native. Local heroes including soulful Dublin singer Gemma Dunleavy as well as electronic icon Mano Le Tough join the bill as does UK singer / DJ Eliza Rose, who has recently followed up her smash hit ‘B.O.T.A’ with her latest EP entitled ‘Business as Usual’. As well as some of Ireland’s rising talent, with more still to come in the coming weeks including some new stages and special guests.

ARCADIA: THE BUG 

The fire-breathing, 360-degree sound Arcadia stage returns to #ATN24, with a specially curated lineup of the world’s leading electronic artists, and top Irish talent, taking the crowd on a sonic journey through to the early hours.

Special Guest // KINK Live // Ross From Friends presents Bubble Love  

SAMA’ Abdulhadi // EFFY // Yung Singh // SHEE // see more here

JAMESON CONNECTS: THE CIRCLE 

Located between the trees, The Circle stage immerses music fans in an unforgettable experience that creates authentic human connection. Featuring live music performances, collaborative DJ sets, workshops and riveting talks, this stage is a space where everyone can come together to enjoy something truly unique.

The Murder Capital // Optimo (Espacio) Morgana // Rachael Lavelle 

Ezra Williams // Aby Coulibaly // Chalk // see more

THE LAST CITY

The Year is 2116. 75 years ago the scorch came, 5 years of consecutive high temperatures. A brave new world grows from the ashes of the old order. This edition of The Last City sees the city growing with newly formed tribes such as The Dark Chandra, the mischievous moon tribe who bring forth the reckoning of the night, the Radiation Resistance who are acrobatic scavengers affected by the nuclear fallout of the apocalypse and The City of The Sun God who return to create another awe-inspiring Afro-Futurist tapestry of dance and music from Celtic tribal rhythms on Friday, raucous anarchist punk and funky jazz fueled vibes.

Jealous of the Birds // SÍOMHA // Really Good Time // THE BONK 

Playback presents: Talking Heads “Stop Making Sense Full Album” // see more

PING PONG DISCO

As part of our ‘After Dark’ experience at ATN24, the ping-pong disco pop-up club emerges as a whimsical playground for the nocturnal adventurer. A groove-infused dance floor brought to life with bouncy disco anthems, complemented by delightfully unpredictable and wonderfully eccentric live performances, our family of flashy fashionistas will be bringing the VIBE. DJs & Performers Include:

Skyrager (Psychemagik) // Felix Dickinson  // Aaron Manhatton  // Eddie Kay

Paradise Cabaret Cabin Fever // Outback Space House  // Jonny Woo’s Best Bits see more

** ALL TOGETHER NOW 2024 TICKETS **

TIER 4 WEEKEND TICKETS & DUE TO PHENOMENAL DEMAND. ADDITIONAL CAMPERVAN PASSES GO ON SALE THURSDAY, MAY 23 AT 9 AM

General Tickets:

A General camping ticket allows access to All Together Now 2024, priced from;

Tier 1 – €199  (SOLD OUT)

Tier 2 – €215  (SOLD OUT)

Tier 3 – €235  (SOLD OUT)

Tier 4 – €249 (ON SALE THURSDAY 09 AM)

Instalment Plan with Klarna:

Buy Now, Pay Later with Klarna. Pay in 3 interest-free instalments with Klarna. €86.50 per payment. Available on the Ticketmaster payment page.

Family Tickets:

A Family Weekend ticket allows access for 1 adult & up to 2 children aged 12 and under into the festival and designated Family Campsite. Priced from

Tier 1 – €199  (SOLD OUT)

Tier 2 – €215  (SOLD OUT)

Tier 3 – €235  (SOLD OUT)

Tier 4 – €249 (ON SALE THURSDAY 09 AM)

Campervan / Caravan Passes:

Due to phenomenal demand a limited amount of additional General Campervan / Caravan will go on sale at 9 AM, Thursday, May 23.

General Campervan / Caravan pass – €99

Family Campervan / Caravan pass – €99

Note you must also purchase a general weekend camping ticket per person & one general campervan ticket per campervan/caravan to gain entry to the general campervan site from Thursday, August 1st.

Early Entry:

We are pleased to announce that early entry on Thursday, August 1st will now be available to all festival ticket holders.

All Together Now is strictly over 21s | Subject to licence 

Please note – Maribou State & BAKAR

Fans of Maribou State, will have probably read their recent post regarding Chris’s medical diagnosis and subsequent surgery. We’re really happy he’s recovering — and totally understand why the exertion of touring the live show is something he’s not quite ready for yet. That said, we’re very happy to say that there will still be a Maribou State DJ set at the Lovely Days Stage.

Unfortunately due to scheduling issues beyond our control, sadly BAKAR will not perform in Europe anymore this August. We hope that he will return to our shores in the not so distant future. 

Monjola Announces New EP ‘It’s Not That Deep’ Via Chamomile Club

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in News.

Ireland’s RnB innovator Monjola announces his brand new 8 Track EP ‘It’s Not That Deep’ which lands on June 14th via Chamomile Club. It comes after he shared his new single ‘Go Wrong’ via Chamomile Club last week.

Hailing from Ireland, this rising alt R&B artist takes listeners on a journey of self- exploration and vulnerability, inviting them to join him in opening up about mental health. With his younger brother MOIO by his side, Monjola leads the charge from their Dublin-based label and creative hub, Chamomile Club. Their mission goes beyond music; it’s about fostering a community where diversity thrives and emerging talents are celebrated.

Speaking on the EP, Monjola says “The project is called iTs NoT tHaT DeEP…In this world where things can get complicated very quickly I found myself questioning and overthinking things and scenarios I’ve been in. The project is a journey that takes the audience through my thought process in a diary format. And at the end of that journey what I come to realise is ‘iTs NoT THaT DeEP’.”

Having toyed with releases on soundcloud during school, MJ’s artistic vision began to crystallize during lockdown when he, Moio and Aby Coulibaly spent their time making music before starting Chamomile Club. It’s quickly become one of Ireland’s most exciting DIY outfits and a home for the inseparable soup of soul, hip hop, RNB, pop and jazz that make up their releases.

This sound has propelled Monjola to tours with Kid Cudi and Genesis Owusu. However, the label co-founder has kept his feet firmly on the ground with his jam sessions in his DIY studio that bring Dublin’s Rnb, soul and pop scene together while his Chamomile Club nights are some of the most exciting in the city and often sell out within a day of release.

‘It’s Not That Deep’ pulls together the power of this community and explores Monjola and MOIO’s experiences of navigating a new culture from a young age. In sharing their story, the two brothers invite others to do the same. From the music to the visuals, every aspect of this EP is a testament to the creativity and unity found within the Chamomile Club. Join Monjola as he creates a safe space for expression and invites you to be a part of something bigger than just music. ‘IT’S NOT THAT DEEP’ isn’t just an EP—it’s a movement towards openness,  understanding, and empowerment.

‘It’s Not That Deep’ was produced by Moio, co-produced by Chris Bubenzer, mixed by Joseph Hartwell Jones (FKA Twigs, Olivia Deane, Adele) and Mastered by Gregg Janman.

The Irish-Nigerian singer’s sound has already earned praise from Notion, Wonderland, The Line of Best Fit, District Magazine and enjoyed airplay from BBC 1xtra. While he was also named as part of RTÉ 2FM Rising’s 2021 edition.

‘It’s Not That Deep’ lands on June 14th.

Follow Monjola

Instagram | TikTok

Over 5,000 Visitors Expected to Attend Blackwater Valley Opera Festival – Are You Ready for the Magic?

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in Industry News.

Just under a week until the enchanting sound of opera fills the summer air at Blackwater Valley Opera Festival. Over 5,000 visitors are expected to engage their senses at the 8-day festival which runs from 27 May to 3 June at Lismore,Cappoquin, Dungarvan, Stradbally, Youghal, and Castlemartyr. With world-class performances, bespoke dining experiences, and stunning historic venues opening their doors just for the festival, unique experiences are guaranteed. There will be more than 100 world-class Irish and International performers providing over 75 hours of live music, the festival promises some captivating performances in beautiful locations.

The 2024 festival lineup promises an exquisite blend of baroque opera and classical music, with performances staged in some of Ireland’s most historic and beautiful venues steeped in history and character, including the majestic Lismore Castle. Guests will experience the profound emotional impact of world-class opera, enhanced by the unique charm and ambiance of the Blackwater Valley.

Festival highlights include:

Opera at the Castle

The flagship opera Giulio Cesare by G.F. Handel, will be performed on the breathtaking grounds of Lismore Castle, Waterford. With conductor Nicholas McGegan OBE leading the Irish Baroque Orchestra and a stellar cast directed by Tom Creed, this production promises to be a truly unmissable interpretation of one of Handel’s greatest Italian operas.

Weds 29 May & Sat 1 June (SOLD OUT) Fri 31 May & Sun 2 June (Limited tickets)

Tickets €75-€220 Lismore Castle, Waterford

Concerts at Dromore Yard

A romantic, semi-restored 19th-century farmyard on the banks of the River Blackwater is the setting for some incredible performances including a belcanto operatic concert – Of Emperors, Kings, and Queens, starring Serenad Uyar, Leonardo Galeazzi, and Dearbhla Collins; the Clara Haskil Piano Competition Concert presented by Finghin Collins, featuring Magdalene Ho with Marc Coppey, and the festival finale Antonio Vivaldi Concert with the Irish Baroque Orchestra – conducted by Nicholas McGegan, and with Arianna Vendittelli, and Iestyn Morris.

Unique Recital Locations

Throughout the week, a series of intimate classical recitals will be held in various historic locations and precious homes throughout the Blackwater Valley, including the scenic Cappoquin House and Gardens, Tourin House, Salterbridge House, Woodhouse Estate, and the atmospheric St. Carthage’s Cathedral, Villierstown Church, and St Mary’s Collegiate Church. The Recitals will showcase a diverse repertoire from Handel and Haydn songbooks to Charles Villiers Stanford, with Irish melodies, Irish writers, and Irish salon operas. The festival also supports 10 artists and performers through four Bursary Awards for up-and-coming performers.
Witness the talent of tomorrow – see this year’s RDS Collins Memorial winner, BVOF Bursary Recital winners, RIAM John Pollard winners, and Irihs Heritage award winners perform live at events during this year’s festival. Tickets for some recitals are still available.

Free Open Air Recitals

Experience classical and operatic music in a welcoming and relaxed outdoor environment with Free Open-Air Lunchtime Recitals in Waterford and Cork (Lismore, Dungarvan, Youghal and Castlemartyr) on 28 and 31 May, 1 and 2 June. Book a free ticket in advance online.

Engage your Senses

For food enthusiasts, there are incredible pop-up dining experiences throughout the week highlighting the stunning produce of the Waterford and Cork region. Choose from celebrity TV chef Eunice Power’s Giulio Cesare menu at Lismore Castle, indulge in Gourmet Table Picnics by award-winning culinary duo Eamo & Ró, savour a lunchtime recital packages available at local eateries, or bring your own picnic to dine on before each of the concerts at Dromore Yard. Pre-booking is essential for all dining or call the Box Office for prices and options.

Opera for the Young

As part of the festival’s commitment to inspire creativity by sharing the joy and wonder of opera and classical music with children and young people in the region, hundreds of primary and post-primary students will take part in educational workshops, attend the Opera Dress Rehearsal, and perform at the Opening Ceremony on Tuesday 28th May (12pm Lismore).

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival is supported by grants from the Arts Council, Waterford City & County Council, Waterford Leader, and Fáilte Ireland. The festival’s lead sponsors are Kildare Village, Marsh, AIB, and the John Pollard Foundation. Event sponsors include Castlemartyr Resort and Waterford Whisky.

Tickets for all events are almost sold out with limited tickets available for a number of events- call the BVOF Box Office on 087 407 9250.

To discover more about BVOF’s eight days of opera, classical music recitals and concerts, schools programme, free events, dining experiences and more, visit blackwatervalleyopera.ie

Galway Folk Festival Reveals Full Programme

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in Industry News.

Over 50 events taking place across Galway

Line-up includes Declan O’Rourke, Beth Orton, Amble, Eleanor Shanley & Mike Hanrahan, Niamh Bury, David Murphy, Ímar + more

5th – 9th June 2024

http://www.galwayfolkfestival.com/

Galway Folk Festival are delighted to announce their full programme for 2024, featuring an exceptional line-up of world-renowned artists and brilliant Irish names, and plenty of free pop-up shows for all ages to enjoy. Returning for their third edition, the festival will take place from Wednesday 5th June to Sunday 9th June, showcasing the best of folk, roots, and traditional music in venues across Galway city.

Among the headliners are beloved singer-songwriter Declan O’Rourke, the enchanting Beth Orton, and the captivating sounds of contemporary folk trio Amble, Glaswegian quintet Ímar and fellow Scots Talisk; Eleanor Shanley & Mike Hanrahan, along with Breen Rynne Murray, Seán Keane, Cillian Vallely & David Doucey, Niamh Bury, Niall McCabe, and many, many more.

With a lineup boasting talent from over 50 established names and emerging artists, there’s something for every music enthusiast to enjoy.

In addition to the ticketed shows, festival-goers can enjoy FREE daytime events across three stages. Cuppa Tea TV returns with The Market Stage, while Culture Vultures with Tony Clayton-Lea offers engaging conversations with special guests across the weekend.Festival Directors Gary Monroe and Peter O’Sullivan comment:

“This is our third year celebrating the rich heritage of folk, roots and trad music, and we want to thank you for making this our biggest and best yet. Our mission is clear: to champion and to preserve traditional folk arts while fostering a sense of community engagement and cultural exchange. This year, we have over 50 established and emerging artists across multiple stages and venues. We are particularly excited to unveil our expanded free daytime programme on Saturday and Sunday, so that the festival experience is family-friendly and inclusive for all ages.”

Tickets for all events can be purchased through the festival’s website.

For full programme details, and booking, visit www.galwayfolkfestival.com

Social Media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FolkFestGalway

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galwayfolkfest/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GalwayFolkFest/

Chamomile Club Announces the Return of the Spectacular: Chamomile Garden

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in News.

Chamomile Club is back with their most anticipated event yet, brought to you in association with Kopparberg – The Chamomile Garden, 27th July 2024.

Known for their electrifying community-building events that sell out instantly, Chamomile Club is set to create an unforgettable experience, bringing people together with diverse DJs, positive vibes, and an array of up-and-coming acts.

Chamomile Club is one of Dublin’s most exciting collectives, run by the talented musicians Monjola, Aby Coulibaly, MOio, and Thomas Kettle. Their events are more than just parties; they are immersive experiences that captivate all your senses. The Chamomile Garden is the pinnacle of this, promising to transport attendees into a vibrant and enchanting world filled with exquisite sounds and stunning visuals.

This year’s Chamomile Garden is not just an event; it’s an entire universe waiting to be explored. As you embark on your journey, you’ll be enveloped in the ethereal atmosphere crafted by Chamomile Club, complete with delicious potions to sip on as you revel in the music and visuals.

The Secret is Out… Almost!

The secret location in Dublin will be revealed very soon, along with the full line-up of incredible artists. Keep your eyes and ears open for this exciting announcement, as it’s sure to be the talk of the town.

Tickets Live Now: HERE

To find out more about Chamomile Club 

TikTok | Instagram 

Annette Joy Releases “Homes Don’t Work With Bombs” Dedicated to the Children of Gaza

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in News.

Annette Joy is an emerging talent known for her unique blend of modern trad and cool country music. With a growing fanbase and a string of successful releases under her belt, she’s quickly making a name for herself in the music industry.

Annette Joy’s latest track, “Homes Don’t work with Bombs”, is dedicated to the children of Gaza. The song harnesses Annette’s towering vocals and heartfelt lyrics to bring attention to the humanitarian crisis occurring in Palestine. As the mother of two children, Annette is deeply aware of childhood’s being robbed due to the ongoing crisis and she was moved to send a message in the best way she knows how – through music. The song is a journey through emotions, and a testament to the power of music to touch the soul. The song is available to purchase now with proceeds going to the charity, Medical Aid for Palestinians.

It’s been a long time since the children got out to play…

I urge people to share and download ‘Homes DON’T work with Bombs’

Play your part and help end the suffering of the children of Palestine

It’s such a simple but much needed message

Home’s DON’T work with Bombs

All Donations Welcome on the link below.

A song dedicated to the children of Gaza, with all proceeds going to Medical Aid for Palestinians.

Homes Don’t Work with Bombs | Annette Joy (bandcamp.com)

For further information: email annettejoyheffernan@nullgmail.com

Annette’s LinkTree: http://linktr.ee/annettejoy

Follow Annette Joy on social media using the links below:

YouTube:  Annette Joy music

Instagram: annette joy music

Facebook: annette Joy Music

Website: www.annettejoymusic.com

SOULÉ Returns with Infectious New Single “Nobu”

Written by Breffni Banks on . Posted in News.

Dublin-based singer/songwriter SOULÉ is set to captivate audiences once again with her latest release, “Nobu”, marking her first single of 2024.

Co-written in collaboration with producer/songwriter Liam Geddes in Dublin, “Nobu” promises to be a standout addition to her catalog.

Embracing a vibrant dance-pop vibe, “Nobu” showcases SOULÉ’s signature smooth vocals against a backdrop of irresistible beats and infectious melodies. With its fun and catchy hook, “Nobu” is destined to become a Summer anthem, infusing energy and good vibes into any playlist.

SOULÉ is one of Ireland’s freshest young voices at the forefront of the new wave of Irish singer/songwriters. Boasting an impressive back catalogue in a relatively short space of time, SOULÉ has landed #1s on both the Irish Radio and Most Shazamed’ Charts, 15 million Spotify streams, 4 “Song of the Year” Choice Award nominations as well as top performances at the leading festivals in Ireland and abroad.In 2022, Soulé was the support act for Westlife’s ‘Wild Dreams’ Tour alongside The Sugababes.

Soulé born Samantha Kay in London, England to Congolese parents. The family moved to Ireland when Soulé was 3 years of age. They settled in Balbriggan, County Dublin when Soulé was 13. She attended the Loreto school in Balbriggan. In her early years, she was involved in music and performing arts in the Foróige youth club in the town.  Soulé released her  debut single ‘Love No more’ in 2017 to critical acclaim. Which was then nominated for Irish song of the year by ‘choice Prize Awards. This was her first of four nominations over the years.

In 2019 she went on to release single ” Love Tonight” ft Ccane as part of her debut EP “Love Cycle”. This single was the biggest song by an Irish female artist at the time according to Official Irish Charts. That same year she performed in the 3Arena for 2FM XMAS BALL alongside other big Irish artist. Fast-forward to 2022, Soulé went on to support Westlife on their “Wild Dreams” Tour in the Aviva Stadium alongside the Sugababes. Soulé is now on a journey to creating music that truly represents her and where she is in life. Stay tuned to see where her journey takes her.

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