Andy Irvine is an acclaimed solo musician and an iconic figure in Irish folk music.  He co-founded Planxty along with Christy Moore, Liam O’Flynn and Donal Lunny, and this group was an integral part of the folk music scene in Ireland and beyond in the mid-seventies. 
Andy also played with Dé Danann for a short time before devoting himself fully to his successful partnership with Paul Brady.  His mandolin chords and self-written songs are instantly recognisable throughout Ireland, and his work and career has influenced many young Irish folk singers.

Celtic band Boys of the Lough have spanned five decades performing together, touring and recording music. 
The ensemble includes Dave Richardson, a Northumberland native who plays mandolin, cittern and accordion; Fermanagh’s Cathal McConnell, one of the most senior whistle and flute players in the Irish tradition, who also provides vocals; Brendan Begley from Kerry who sings in Irish and plays accordion; Kevin Henderson from the Shetland Islands on fiddle and Malcom Stitt from the Scottish Highlands on guitar. 

Monaghan native Gráinne Duffy is currently riding the crest of a wave following the success of her debut album ‘Out of the Dark’. 
After completing a degree in music Gráinne launched into a busy schedule of session touring, taking in Italy and France.  Her distinctive blues-rock style has earned her accolades from many critics. 
Fresh from her performance at Glastonbury, Gráinne Duffy has taken root in the Irish music industry and is not going to give that up easily!

Belfast-born Marcas Ó Murchú has long been respected as an outstanding flute player, and in Derry where he now lives he is constantly in demand for music workshops and individual tuition. 
A man of many talents indeed, he is Head of Spanish at St. Columb’s College in the city, but is also a respected Irish teacher.  He has released two albums; 1997’s ‘Ó Bhéal go Béal’ and most recently ‘Turas Ceoil’.