Flutopia

Belfast TradFest Flute Concert

Belfast TradFest proudly presents its annual celebration of the wooden flute, an instrument deeply woven into Belfast's musical identity and one of the defining voices of Irish traditional music.

Belfast has long been synonymous with the sound of the flute. The local style is renowned for its driving energy, rhythmic pulse and creativity, drawing listeners into the hypnotic flow that has become a hallmark of the city's musical tradition.

This much-loved annual concert brings together some of the world's finest traditional flute and whistle players for a dynamic evening of solo performances, collaborations and musical exchange.

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Featured Artists

Sylvain Barou

A Breton multi-instrumentalist of international acclaim, Sylvain Barou is celebrated for his virtuosic flute playing and his ability to bridge Irish, Breton and global musical traditions.

June McCormack

Originally from County Sligo, June McCormack is one of Ireland's most respected flute players. A TG4 Young Musician of the Year and All-Ireland champion, she is recognised for her mastery of the North Connacht style and her acclaimed recordings and international performances.

Michael McGoldrick

Manchester-born Michael McGoldrick is one of the most influential flute and whistle players of his generation. A founding member of Lúnasa and a member of both Capercaillie and Mark Knopfler's touring band, he is renowned for his distinctive sound and groundbreaking approach to traditional music.

Éimhear Flannery

A recent Seán Ó Riada Gold Medal winner from County Cork, Éimhear Flannery is admired for her lyrical, expressive playing and exceptional musical sensitivity.

Gino Lupari

Founding member of Four Men and a Dog, Gino Lupari is one of Ireland's most celebrated bodhrán players, known for his energy, precision and unmistakable rhythmic drive.

Patrick Davey

A leading figure in Belfast's traditional music community, Patrick Davey is recognised for his powerful flute style and his ongoing contribution to sustaining and developing the city's rich flute tradition.

Etain Murphy

From County Antrim, Etain Murphy is one of the most exciting young flute players emerging on the traditional music scene. A student of Patrick Davey and the Glengormley School of Traditional Music, she gained national recognition in 2023 by winning the prestigious Peig Needham Cup for Under-12 Flute at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

John Blake

Originally from London and now based in Galway, John Blake is a highly respected guitarist and accompanist whose sensitive and versatile playing has made him a sought-after collaborator across the traditional music world.

Fergal O'Brien

An accomplished bodhrán player and educator from County Armagh, Fergal O'Brien brings subtlety, power and rhythmic sophistication to ensemble performance.

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A Celebration of Belfast's Flute Tradition

Bringing together internationally renowned performers, local masters and emerging young talent, this special concert celebrates the enduring influence of the flute within Belfast's musical landscape and its continuing role at the heart of Irish traditional music.

A world-class showcase of flute, whistle and rhythm celebrating one of Belfast's most cherished musical traditions.