CÓR CÚIL AODHA

Cór Cúil Aodha was founded by Seán Ó’Riada in the musical heartland of the West Cork Gaeltacht of Baile Mhuirne in 1964. This region, though historically rich both in instrumental and vocal music, grew in fame through its association with Sean O’Riada. Shortly after their formation Seán also arranged them into a claisceadal or group-singing of traditional songs. The choir performs consorts of this secular music as well as their liturgical singing. Peadar O’Riada has been director of the choir since his father’s death in 1971 and it is he who composes much of their music. Generations of Cul Aodha men have added their voices to this rich and resonant choir and it has achieved cult status in traditional circles.

CÓR THAOBH A’ LEITHID

Cór Thaobh a’ Leithid is a traditional Gaelic choir from the Donegal Gaeltacht. Their approach to choral arrangement is truly unique in that they keep to the traditional Irish style of singing without straying into the more familiar classical style. Their singing is lush with fl owing ornaments, free-style phrasing and they illustrate a deep understanding of seannós singing. Their harmonies are modal which give you a true sense of what Gaelic music is about. They have a very extensive repertoire from lonely immigration songs to jolly drinking songs to heartbreaking love songs.