There’s great news for traditional music fans as the Irish language and cultural centre An Droichead has just released the first in a series of traditional music podcasts.

Hosted by Robert McMillen of the Irish News, Ar Chúl an Cheoil/Behind the Music interviews some of traditional music’s foremost figures about the people they are and the music they play.
The podcasts explore their unique perspectives on the tradition, their influences and insights into their careers as musicians.

The first episode features legendary fiddle player Paddy Glackin (Bothy Band, LAPD) with subsequent interviews featuring, amongst others, piper, cellist and composer Neil Martin, Buncrana fiddler and academic Liz Doherty, and Lúnasa’s uilleann piper, Cillian Vallely.

“It’s been an absolute privilege talking to such lovely people who have interesting things to say, not just about music but about life in general,” says Robert.
“I found it very uplifting that the guests, after a life-time of playing, teaching and recording music are still as curious and inventive today as they were when they were teenagers.
“I also think that the podcasts will appeal to everyone from the died in in the wool trad-head to youngsters taking their first steps into the magical world of Irish traditional music.
“Through the different guests, we get a glimpse of the huge variety there is in traditional music, how the old music remains hale and hearty but how others are boldly taking it into the 21st century and beyond,” says Robert.
Speaking about the podcast series, An Droichead’s Arts Officer, Claire Kieran, said all at the centre were really excited to launch Ar Chúl an Cheoil.

“We hope that it provides a way for audiences to go behind the music they love and hear the unique perspectives of some of the amazing musicians we have had play in An Droichead over the years,” she says.
To listen to the podcast, with a new episode each Monday, go to apple.co/33EBvPY or search An Droichead or Ar Chúl an Cheoil on all podcast providers.