Imagining Ireland through music

Listening to music stimulates the brain's right hemisphere, which is responsible for creativity and imagination. Music awakens memories and emotions as melodies and lyrics tap into something deep in the human soul.

Irish music, in particular, connects deeply, stirring something timeless yet evolving in each listener. With its folk origins to its modern manifestation, Irish music is an example of how the art form and a community of creatives are moving with the times.

Redefining Irish music

Once rooted in folklore, Irish music today stretches across genres and generations, redefining itself with each new artist. From indie-folk to soulful R&B, the scene thrives on collaboration and shared passion, honouring the past while envisioning a fresh future.

Folk artist Susan O’Neill describes the contemporary Irish music scene as “eclectic” and “exciting”. It is also collaborative, inclusive and built on a community of artists working together.

Through the written word, Irish songwriters are defying boundaries and breaking out of stereotypes defined for them by others. In their lyrics, they dare to say the things that can’t be said.

The community honours the traditions of the past while firmly looking to the future.

Imagining Ireland

Since its inception in 2016, Imagining Ireland has grown into a cultural bridge between Ireland and the world, showcasing the country’s evolving musical landscape. The programme not only honours Irish traditions but also shines a spotlight on the ways these sounds are transformed by global influences, from jazz and R&B to indie rock and spoken word.

Through this annual celebration, artists from all over Ireland are broadening the definition of what it means to be Irish, at home and abroad, through music.

Carefully curated

Curated by Sorcha Richardson – renowned for her storytelling prowess, cinematic lyrics, and collaborations with artists like Ellie Goulding and tours with Villagers – the 2024 programme wove diverse voices into a singular narrative of Ireland today: complex, inclusive, and endlessly imaginative.

The bill included Ye Vagabonds, who performed pieces from their celebrated album ‘Nine Waves’, as well as Susan O’Neill, whose timeless voice and unique stylings have seen her earn nominations for the Choice Music prize and the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards.

Rising star of Irish R&B Aby Coulibaly brought her distinctive mix of ‘90s beats, insightful lyrics and buttery vocals, while MOIO is establishing himself as a leading force in the emerging Irish Creative community, with his soulful alternative R&B.

Rachael Lavelle captivated the audience on the night too, with tracks from her existential coming-of-age album ‘Big Dream’ showcasing her ability to combine an arresting vocal style with humorous observations on existence.

Impact and legacy

As the final notes faded, it was clear that Imagining Ireland had accomplished more than a night of entertainment. It had created a living archive of Irish music’s journey, inspiring the audience and future musicians alike to continue evolving, redefining, and reimagining Irish culture.

With each concert, Imagining Ireland deepens its legacy, serving as a reminder that music is a universal language, and Ireland’s voice is only growing stronger.

Imagining Ireland serves as a cultural bridge, strengthening the Irish diaspora’s connection to home.

For many Irish living abroad, particularly in places like London and New York where Imagining Ireland has staged performances, the programme evokes a sense of pride and belonging. It reconnects them to Ireland in a way that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

For those of non-Irish heritage, the concert is a gateway to a deeper understanding of Ireland’s cultural identity, challenging assumptions and inviting empathy through music and storytelling.

In case you missed it, Sorcha curated a dedicated playlist to give a flavour of the evening on Spotify.