Ceol na BPíob

Ceol na bPíob

A Celebration of the Legacy of R.L. O'Mealy

Presented by Belfast TradFest and An Droichead in association with Comharchumann Píobaireachta Bhéal Feirste / Belfast Piping Cooperative

This special concert brings together some of today's finest pipers and traditional artists to celebrate the life, artistry and enduring influence of R.L. O'Mealy, one of the great masters of the uilleann pipes.

A member of the Church of Ireland community, O'Mealy's story reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Belfast and the shared musical traditions that continue to connect people across communities. His legacy remains deeply woven into the fabric of Irish traditional music, inspiring generations of musicians who have followed in his footsteps.

Through solo performances and collaborative works, Ceol na bPíob honours both the depth of the piping tradition and the creativity of today's vibrant piping community.

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Featured Artists

Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn

An award-winning piper from County Monaghan, Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn has been immersed in traditional music since his early years with the Armagh Pipers Club.

A multiple All-Ireland and Oireachtas winner, he received the prestigious Seán Ó Riada Bonn Óir in 2013 and has performed throughout the world alongside artists including Tommy Peoples, Laoise Kelly and the Vallely brothers.

Robbie Hannan

Originally from Holywood, County Down, Robbie Hannan has been one of the most respected figures in Irish piping since the late 1970s.

Influenced by legendary pipers including Séamus Ennis, Willie Clancy and Tommy Reck, he has performed extensively across Europe and North America and is highly regarded as both performer and teacher.

Ailis Sutherland

Scottish musician Ailis Sutherland is a highly accomplished smallpiper and Highland piper from Kirriemuir, Angus.

As a solo performer and member of groups including Hecla, she has toured widely across Europe, Scandinavia and Australia. Based in Glasgow, she is also an educator with the National Piping Centre.

Jane Walls

From Moneyglass, County Antrim, Jane Walls is one of the most exciting uilleann pipers of her generation.

A seven-time All-Ireland champion and winner of the Senior Uilleann Pipes title at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025, she has performed at major venues and festivals throughout Ireland and is featured on Na Píobairí Uilleann's Mná na Píob Volume 2.

Bláithín Mhic Cana

Sean-nós singer and educator Bláithín Mhic Cana from Mullaghbawn, County Armagh, is a leading voice in the revival and promotion of the Oirialla song tradition.

A member of Tempest and a protégé of renowned singer and collector Pádraigín Ní Uallacháin, her work combines performance, education and Irish-language advocacy.

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Host

Cormac "Buzz" Ó Briain (MC)

A central figure within Belfast's piping community, Cormac "Buzz" Ó Briain has played a vital role in developing piping activity throughout the city through the work of Comharchumann Píobaireachta Bhéal Feirste / Belfast Piping Cooperative.

His contribution to classes, concerts and community initiatives has helped nurture and strengthen Belfast's vibrant piping tradition.

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Honouring a Shared Tradition

Rooted in Belfast's rich musical heritage and reflecting Belfast TradFest's commitment to celebrating shared traditions, Ceol na bPíob offers an evening of exceptional musicianship, cultural exchange and artistic excellence.

Through pipes, song and storytelling, the concert celebrates not only the legacy of R.L. O'Mealy, but also the living tradition that continues to inspire musicians and audiences today.

A powerful celebration of piping, song and shared heritage honouring one of Belfast's great traditional music figures.