A concert in Donegal found unity in the vitality of contemporary Irish composition's diverse strands.

The music of Tarab brings together Mediterranean and Irish music traditions – reminiscent of medieval Irish travel stories, but also more than an imaginary tale.

Enda Bates' music for hexaphonic guitar brings together his formal training and rock influences.

Counterpoint in music – as much a concept as a technique – has been with us for centuries, from the twelfth-century vocal music of Léonin to the playlists on our iPods. But what is really at the heart of the idea?

A double CD entitled Music from Ireland 2011 will be given to the visiting parties of Queen Elizabeth II and President Obama during their state visits to Ireland in May. What does this collection say about contemporary Irish musical life?

Being cut off is a state of mind, writes composer John McLachlan

A new generation of musicians and singers is pulling the English folk scene alongside its Irish and Scottish neighbours, pointing to a new era of collaboration – and perhaps even the healing of old wounds, writes Toner Quinn

A group of prominent Irish emigrant traditional musicians in The Bedford Arms pub, Arlington Road, Camden Town, London, c.

The rise and fall of the Irish new music scene.

The challenges facing the funding of the arts go beyond the current economic situation.

Daithí Kearney, Castlemartyr, Co.

The music of Donnacha Dennehy.