Harp Day 2024 Mayo

Harp Day at the Foxford Traditional Weekend was a resounding success, celebrating the Irish harp and showcasing incredible talent! Highlights included All-Ireland Champions: Hannah Lyons (Harp) and Ryan Sheridan (Accordion) lighting up the headline concert, and Music Generation Mayo’s Harp Ensemble shining in a free lunchtime recital led by Grainne Hambly and William Jackson.

Workshops with harp masters Laoise Kelly and Michael Rooney filled up quickly. Festival-goers enjoyed a unique lecture-recital by Laoise Kelly, who shared the history of 18th-century harper Hugh Higgins, and the day wrapped up with a “Hands on Harp” taster class and an inspiring concert featuring Bríd Harper, Dermot Byrne, and Steve Cooney. Thanks to all who joined and supported the events, celebrating our harp heritage!

Moy Hotel, Mayo, Friday 18th October
Concert with Don Stiffe & Hernon Family, Hannah Lyons (Harp) and Ryan Sheridan (Accordion)
Moy Hotel, Mayo, Saturday 19th October
Féile Concert with Bríd Harper, Dermot Byrne & Steve Cooney June McCormack & Michael Rooney, Eoin O’Donnell, Moffatt School of Dance

The Foxford Woollen Mills, Saturday 19th October
Lunchtime recital with Music Generation Mayo Harp Ensemble under the direction of Grainne Hambly and William Jackson, current Senior All-Ireland Champion, Hannah Lyons.

Harp marker Graham Wright was on hand to offer advice on harp repairs, general upkeep and purchasing harps.

Foxford National School, Saturday 19th October
Performance Masterclass with Michael Rooney
Workshops: Advanced Harp & Intermediate Harp ​with Laoise Kelly / Michael Rooney ​
‘Hands on Harp’ Taster Class

Church of Ireland, Foxford, Saturday 19th October
Lecture-recital by Laoise Kelly, on harper Hugh Higgins (1737-1796)