Ómós na n-Ultach - Micheal Rooney

Ómós na n-Ultach

As part of the All Ireland Programme, Ómós na n-Ultach comes to the Ulster Hall in a powerful and uplifting celebration of Ulster's music, history and cultural identity.

Commissioned by Comhairle Chúige Uladh, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, this evocative suite of Irish traditional music premiered to great acclaim at Fleadh Uladh 2022 in Dromore, County Tyrone. Composed by the renowned Micheál Rooney, the acclaimed harpist, concertina player and composer from Scotstown, County Monaghan, the work is performed by the Ulster Youth Folk Orchestra alongside guest musicians from across the province.

Through a rich tapestry of music, narration and visual imagery, audiences are taken on a journey through Ulster's story, exploring themes of landscape, heritage, faith, migration and resilience. The suite reflects key moments in the province's history, from the arrival of St Patrick and the Flight of the Earls to the enduring experience of emigration, while celebrating the people, places and traditions that continue to shape Ulster today.

Each movement captures a different facet of Ulster life, creating an immersive experience that is accessible for families, deeply rewarding for lovers of traditional music and inspiring for Irish language learners of all levels.

Described by audiences at its premiere as "an excellent reflection of the traditional music, culture and history of Ulster - a show that has something for everyone", Ómós na n-Ultach is a moving and memorable celebration of a living cultural tradition in the heart of Belfast.