PRESS RELEASE
THE O’CAROLAN HARP FESTIVAL & SUMMER SCHOOL
The organising committee of the O’CAROLAN HARP FESTIVAL & SUMMER SCHOOL extend a warm invitation to music lovers everywhere to join us in the celebration of Turlough O’Carolan (1670-1738), one of Ireland’s most significant and internationally recognised composers. The Festival takes place from July 28th to August 4th, 2025 in the picturesque village of Keadue, Co Roscommon and the surrounding area.
This year, the festival offers a wide range of musical, cultural and educational events that highlight Turlough O’Carolan’s legacy. His talent for music was nurtured through the kindness of the McDermott-Roe family of Ballyfarnon when he lost his sight to smallpox as a young man. He learned to play the harp and became a travelling bard, visiting many of the ‘great’ houses in Roscommon and the surrounding counties until his death aged 68. His remains lie in the crypt of the ruins of Kilronan Abbey alongside the McDermott-Roe ancestors on the shore of nearby Lough Meelagh. Written accounts portray him as a jovial and colourful character, whose geniality and genius for composition led him to be in great demand.
The festival aims to promote awareness and knowledge of O’Carolan’s musical legacy through the provision of classes in Irish harp and other instruments (for all levels), concerts, lectures, village parade, wreath-laying ceremony, drama performance and céilithe with the O’Carolan Country Céilí Band and The Piper’s Cross Céilí Band. A unique night in Kilronan Castle is our Harp Recital featuring Fiachra Guihen, Mossie Martin, Emma Benson, Micheál Fitzgibbon, Clodagh and Sophie Daly performing a selection of Turlough O’Carolan’s pieces.
This year will feature a new event in collaboration with Harp Ireland, featuring renowned harpers including Anne-Marie O’Farrell, Cormac De Barra and Laoise Kelly. One of the main highlights of the week is the annual Internationally renowned O’Carolan Harp Competitions.
Finally, a special highlight of the festival on Sunday August 3rd, is a concert in St. Ronan’s Hall, with Seán Keane & Band.
Check out our website for further information www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie and on our social media channels Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok.