- Culture
- 18 Feb 20
Some of Ireland’s most notable stars will gather in Belfast this weekend for the 2020 Gradam Ceoil music awards, taking place at the Waterfront Hall on Sunday February 23. The showcase kicks off with a bunch of free events throughout Belfast City starting on Thursday.
The internationally acclaimed traditional Irish music award ceremony will welcome a variety of prestigious guests including Line of Duty’s Adrian Dunbar, GAA Presidential Candidate Jarlath Burns and Minister for Communities Deirdre Hargey.
Trad sensation Beoga, who collaborated with Ed Sheeran for his chart topping hit ‘Galway Girl’ will also take to the stage. “We are delighted to be involved in the 23rd annual Gradam Ceoil traditional music awards celebration and are proud to be associated with such a prestigious event that celebrates highly-talented Irish and international musicians.”
Women lead the way in this year's accolades, with 'Musician of the Year', 'Young Musician of the Year' and 'Composer of the Year' all set to be awarded to talented female musicians.
Harper Laoise Kelly from Westport is this year’s 'Musician of the Year' and is one of the youngest recipients of the main award to date.
Fiddle and Cello player, Sharon Howley, has been selected as the '2019 Young Musician of the Year' and Lillis Ó Laoire is to be awarded the title of 'Singer of the Year'.
The other award recipients are 'Lifetime Achievement Award' to Séamus Connolly, 'Outstanding Contribution Award' to Nenagh's Ned Kelly and 'Composer of the Year' to Josephine Marsh.
The events include an exploration of contemporary Irish harp together with Gaelic bardic poetry by Lauren O’Neill. Attendees can also take a musical journey through outer space, where children will learn new songs and dances at Cultúrlann and soak in the sounds of amazing young traditional Irish musicians at St George’s Market. From tours, trad trails, sessions, recitals, exhibitions and much more, there is truly something for everyone in this year’s fringe event.
Tickets for TG4 Gradam Ceoil Awards 2020 are still available.
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Gradam Ceoil is the premier annual traditional music awards scheme, with this year’s event set to be televised live on TG4 from Belfast on Sunday February 23.