Dee Armstrong is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist, composer, and a vibrant presence in Irish music for over three decades. Best known as a member of the legendary band Kíla since 1991, Dee’s electrifying performances showcase her mastery of the fiddle, viola, hammered dulcimer, banjo, bodhrán, and tuned percussion.
Hailing from a deeply musical family, Dee’s legacy resonates across generations. Her children—Tiggy, Diarmuid, Lughaidh, and Rosie Armstrong—carry forward this tradition, with
Diarmuid (5-string banjo) and Lughaidh (guitar) lending their talents to her upcoming solo album. Dee’s creative influence extends beyond music. Over 30 years with Kíla, she has played a key role in visual artistry, designing the band’s projections, sets, and album artwork—a testament to her holistic approach to storytelling.
Outside Kíla, Dee’s musical journey spans collaborations with groups like The Free Speaking Monkey (since 2015) and the Armagh Rhymers (from 2024), as well as composing for solo projects,
theatre, and radio. Her work has also left a mark in film, contributing to award-winning soundtracks with composer Bruno Coulais for Cartoon Saloon’s animated masterpieces: The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea (featuring Lisa Hannigan), and Wolfwalkers (in collaboration with Aurora).
Recently, Dee was awarded a Music Bursary and Traditional Arts Project Award from the Arts Council, supporting her second solo album and a documentary on North Leitrim musician Micheál
Clancy, “Man of a Thousand Tunes”. From acclaimed scores to her 2022 theatre work, Under the Night Sky, Dee continues to weave traditional and contemporary influences into a dynamic body of work.
Upcoming Solo Album
Dee Armstrong’s highly anticipated solo album, arriving in early 2025, highlights her signature blend of tradition and innovation. Recorded at her home in Boihy, Co. Leitrim, and self-produced, the album features original compositions alongside select collaborations: “Prince of Laughter” (co-composed with Bobby Lee) and “Yon Do” (a traditional piece arranged with Fraolach).
Featured Musicians:
● Dee Armstrong: Fiddle, viola, banjo, hammered dulcimer, string arrangements, vocals
● Bobby Lee: Acoustic guitars
● Lughaidh Armstrong: Electric guitar
● Rick Epping: Harmonica
● Frank Tate: Bouzouki
● Ronan Ó Snodaigh: Bodhrán
● Peter Browne: Accordion
● Miriam Ingram & Frances Cranny: Harmony vocals
Promising intricate storytelling and rich musical textures, Dee’s forthcoming album reflects her deep-rooted connection to Ireland’s traditions while embracing a contemporary edge
TOUR DATES:
To celebrate the launch of the album, Dee Armstrong will perform live shows across Ireland.
See her at:
IRELAND:
Feb 1 – The Glens Centre – Leitrim – Tickets
Feb 8 – Féile Bríde – Kildare (Daytime show) – Tickets
Feb 8 – Monroes – Galway – Tickets
Feb 15 – Aonach Mhaca – Armagh
Mar 1 – Hawk’s Well Theatre – Sligo – Tickets
Mar 2 – The Sugar Club – Dublin – Tickets
Mar 7 – Dolan’s – Limerick – Tickets
Mar 8 – Coughlan’s – Cork – Tickets
Mar 9 – Connolly’s of Leap – Cork
Mar 15 – Seamus Ennis Arts Centre – Dublin
Mar 16 – Cleere’s – Kilkenny
Apr 26 – Townhall – Cavan