The beautiful Kylemore Abbey in Conamara is the setting for ‘Ceiliúradh na mBan’ a special celebration of Irish women airing January 31st on TG4.
This is the eve of St Brigid’s Day – Lá ‘le Bríde, which traditionally marks the end of the long dark winter and the returning of the light.
Ceol ó Kylemore (music from Kylemore Abbey) is a joyous musical celebration of this beginning of Spring and the brighter days ahead.
This hour-long programme with an all-female line-up was recorded at the end of 2020 and features some of the best of female traditional musicians and singers.
Ceiliúradh na mBan will see people like Moya Brennan of Clannad joined by many of TG4‘s acclaimed Gradam Ceoil award winners, including Mary Bergin on the whistle, Laoise Kelly on Harp, Josephine Marsh on accordion and Sharon Howley on cello.
Along with singers Cathy Jordan, Pauline Scanlon, Nicola Joyce and Noriana Kennedy of The Whileaways the line-up for Ceiliúradh na mBan also includes Sibéal – the voice behind the pivotal performance piece ‘Mise Éire’ – and Caitlin Nic Gabhann on concertina.
Set as it is against the backdrop of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is the ideal location to celebrate Brigid, the Goddess and Saint.
This 19th-century castle was once a grand family home before it became a refuge to a small order or nuns fleeing the ravages of war in Europe.
It continues to be home to a community of Benedictine nuns, a haven and centre of learning which nurtures many facets of Irish cultural life.
The show is presented by traditional singer and harper, Síle Denvir and will include a specially-commissioned composition from Josephine Marsh on accordion with Liz and Yvonne Kane on fiddles and an ensemble finale featuring the stellar line-up.
‘Ceol ó Kylemore: Ceiliúradh na mBan’ will air on TG4 at 9.30 pm Sunday January 31st 2021.