Black Box

The Neuroscience of the Harper's Brain is a unique event that brings together Ireland's rich musical heritage and cutting-edge science. At its heart is the Irish harp, a symbol of Irish identity for over a thousand years, brought vividly to life by acclaimed Belfast harpist Ursula Burns. Blending tradition with bold experimentation, Ursula performs live while neuroscience techniques are used to explore and measure her brain activity as she plays. Alongside the performance, Dr Niamh Kennedy of Ulster University reveals the hidden science behind musical performance, drawing on her research imaging the brains of harpists to uncover how playing the harp shapes the brain's wiring, movement, creativity and improvisation. Combining live music, storytelling and neuroscience, this fascinating event offers audiences not only exceptional musicianship and Belfast craic, but a deeper understanding of why Irish music continues to resonate so powerfully across generations. Delivered in partnership with the Northern Ireland Science Festival.

The Neuroscience of the Harper's Brain is a unique event that brings together Ireland's rich musical heritage and cutting-edge science. At its heart is the Irish harp, a symbol of Irish identity for over a thousand years, brought vividly to life by acclaimed Belfast harpist Ursula Burns. Blending tradition with bold experimentation, Ursula performs live while neuroscience techniques are used to explore and measure her brain activity as she plays. Alongside the performance, Dr Niamh Kennedy of Ulster University reveals the hidden science behind musical performance, drawing on her research imaging the brains of harpists to uncover how playing the harp shapes the brain's wiring, movement, creativity and improvisation. Combining live music, storytelling and neuroscience, this fascinating event offers audiences not only exceptional musicianship and Belfast craic, but a deeper understanding of why Irish music continues to resonate so powerfully across generations. Delivered in partnership with the Northern Ireland Science Festival.

To mark the return of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Belfast, we’ve a special tenx9 featuring two of Ireland’s greatest cultural contributions to the world – storytelling & music. Join us for nine true stories on the theme: Tradition on Weds 5th August plus a few traditional tunes. Tenx9 is a storytelling event where nine people have up to ten minutes each to tell a true story from their own life.

Electric Reels Hailing from County Armagh, Electric Reels are an exciting young folk and traditional music group made up of musicians aged between 11 and 13 years old. Despite their young age, the band has already built an impressive reputation through performances at Belfast City Hall and festivals across Ireland, captivating audiences with a blend of heartfelt ballads and lively traditional tunes. Bringing fresh energy to timeless Irish folk classics, Electric Reels combines respect for tradition with a youthful and contemporary approach, creating performances that are both engaging and inspiring. A New Generation of Traditional Music Audiences can expect: Spirited lead vocals Tight vocal harmonies Dynamic banjo and whistle playing Strong rhythmic accompaniment on drums A vibrant mix of folk songs and traditional tunes Their enthusiasm, musicianship and stage presence have helped them connect with audiences of all ages while showcasing the future of Irish traditional music. Music with a Purpose Alongside their growing success as performers, Electric Reels have also raised thousands of pounds for Alzheimer's Research, demonstrating a commitment to using music to support important causes within their community. With every performance, the group continues to go from strength to strength, winning new fans and bringing a fresh voice to Ireland's rich musical tradition. A talented young band breathing new life into Irish folk and traditional music with energy, passion and a distinctly youthful spirit.

, the trio blends free improv, electronic music, and Belfast’s “seisiún” scene, exploring the intersection of tradition and avant-garde. Rooted in Belfast’s historical dichotomies, Córas Trio bridges diverse musical approaches, juxtaposing traditional roots with avant-garde experimentation. Their sound evokes a unique fusion where influences as varied as Schoenberg, Sun Ra, Seán Ó Riada, and Tommie Potts converge, creating an ethereal yet grounded musical landscape. The album features deeply atmospheric compositions reminiscent of Brian Eno’s discreet use of electronics, yet it resists categorization as ambient music, firmly occupying the foreground of contemporary experimental music. Performing as part of our Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 program

Enda McCabe Enda McCabe is a highly experienced songwriter, singer and performer whose career has taken him to audiences across Ireland and around the world. Born in Dublin and now based in Conamara, County Galway, Enda has released three albums and performed extensively throughout Ireland, Britain, France, Belgium, Austria, Japan, China and the United States. A compelling solo performer, he has also collaborated with a wide range of respected musicians including Tim Edey, Róisín El Safty, Johnny Connolly, Johnny Óg Connolly and Japanese flautist Tomoyo Sugai. Songs, Stories & Tradition Following a period away from performing due to health reasons, Enda has returned to the stage with a show that is lively, engaging and full of warmth. Effortlessly moving between traditional songs in both Irish and English, he combines music with storytelling, sharing fascinating tales drawn from a lifetime spent travelling, performing and immersed in traditional music. Rich in humour, insight and memorable songs, his performances offer audiences a unique glimpse into the experiences and characters that have shaped his musical journey. A masterful blend of song, storytelling and tradition from one of Ireland's most engaging performers.