LAST Sunday, the enchanting voice of Diane Cannon, a beloved figure in traditional Irish music and culture, introduced the world to her latest work. The Meenlaragh native released “Bean an Fhir Ruaidh,” the first single from her much-anticipated upcoming album. The song is a local version of a well-known traditional piece, generously shared by sean-nós […]
Shauna Scanlon’s local roots fuel global dreams
By Tara McCormack BALLYBOFEY may be a small town, but for Shauna Scanlon, it’s a musical hub bursting with talent and inspiration. The 33-year-old musician, singer, and songwriter has been honing her craft since a young age, playing the piano and being immersed in a community rich with music. Advertisement “People who visit always comment […]
Culture Night 2024: A Celebration of Arts, Heritage, and Community
TAKING place on Friday, September 20, Culture Night is ‘One Night For All’, with events taking place across Donegal. This year’s event promises some of the most exciting and exclusive programmes to date. Donegal County Council Arts Officer, Traolach Ó Fionnáin said it’s a night where the whole community comes together to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry […]
Local musician speaks out after winning case against Michael English Band
By Evelyn Cullen IN a landmark case which is being hailed as “the most seismic change for professional musicians in living memory”, Donegal musician Matt McGranaghan has won a dispute against his former employer over his employment status. Matt McGranaghan, a former fiddle player for top country music star Michael English, was awarded almost, €44,000 for unfair dismissal […]
Gaoth Dobhair sean-nós singer Clíona brings Irish heritage to global audience
By Tara McCormack GAOTH DOBHAIR’S own Clíona Ní Ghallachóir, a 25-year-old sean-nós singer from Mín a’ Chladaigh, recently returned from an unforgettable experience at the prestigious Festival Interceltique in Lorient, France. Representing Ireland as a soloist, Clíona shared her remarkable talent on an international stage, an opportunity she describes as “a memorable experience.” Advertisement Reflecting […]
Donegal artists feature on new homeless charity album
Two talented artists from Donegal, Moya Brennan and Carol Wilson, are featured on the newly released charity album ‘Kindness on the Streets’. This album, which aims to raise awareness and funds for Belfast’s homeless charity, The People’s Kitchen, includes contributions from both national and international musical stars. Notable artists such as Ralph McTell, Mary Black, […]
Healing Hands CD fundraiser reaches new heights
ONE year after his hugely successful CD album ‘Healing Hands’ raised thousands of euros for Doctors Without Borders, the Rann na Feirste man behind the special fundraiser is planning more special performances. A host of Donegal musicians inlcuding Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh, Manus Lunny, Ian Smith, and Stephen Campbell were brought together by Rann na Feirste’s […]
Dungloe singer releases debut single
A SINGER-songwriter from Dungloe has just released her debut single and is getting ready to embark on an exciting move to Belfast to further her music career. Speaking to the Donegal News this week Lára O’Donnell said she only started writing her own music last year. The 20-year-old has just graduated from Ulster University where […]
Donegal musician still reeling from Damo support slot
MARIA McCormack says she almost fainted when Damien Dempsey asked to buy her album. The Letterkenny singer and songwriter was one of two warm up acts ahead of the Dubliner’s appearance at Séan Óg’s in Derrybeg at the weekend. Saturday’s concert was first scheduled for 2020 but had to be postponed due to the pandemic. The […]