Michael Rooney & Altan at Belfast TradFest

Michael Rooney & Altan at Belfast TradFest

Friday 23rd February, 7pm

Empire Music Hall

Altan, a leading force in traditional Irish music for nearly 40 years, was founded by Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Frankie Kennedy in the early 1980s to be later joined by Daíthí Sproule (guitar), Ciaran Curran (bouzouki), Mark Kelly (guitar), Martin Tourish (accordion). Their music, ranging from energetic dance tunes to soulful songs, reflects the depth and richness of Irish heritage. Altan’s global popularity, having toured the world over, has earned them an Irish postal stamp and recognition from Donegal County Council.

With award-winning recordings and new member Clare Friel (fiddle), they continue to thrive and share their culture worldwide. Their traditional approach and integrity have earned praise from renowned sources, solidifying their status as Celtic music pioneers.

TG4 Composer of the Year 2017, Michael Rooney grew up in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan and now lives in Sligo where he has become part of the musical and cultural bedrock of the region. He is recognised as one of the most influential and innovative stylists on the harp, and his virtuosic technique as well as his approach to rhythm and harmony have helped to reposition it as a popular and integral part of the living tradition.

He is also established as a significant composer of music for small and large-scale ensembles & orchestras and has composed 17 suites of music in the past 20 years, including ‘The Ulster Suite’ (2022), ‘Clairseoireacht’ (2022), Constance (2020), The Famine Suite (2019), The Macalla Suite (2016), Boróimhe Suite (2014), The Second Coming (2014), De Cuellar Suite (2011) and Battle of the Books Suite (2007).