Fiddle-player Martin Hayes has been appointed as the inaugural Irish World Academy Artist at the University of Limerick.

The three-year appointment involves a series of creative projects over the period as well as student workshops.

Commenting on his appointment, Hayes said,

I’m deeply honoured to be named the first Irish World Academy Artist at the University of Limerick and grateful for the opportunity this three-year initiative affords me to explore the possibility of further musical collaboration in such a creative environment.

Hayes has had a long association with the Academy, having taught and performed regularly at the Blas International Summer School, which takes place on the campus every year. In 2010, Hayes undertook a period as Artist in Residence at the Academy.

The three-year patronage has a value of €60,000.

Professor Mícheál Ó Súílleabháin, Chair of Music and Founder Director of the Irish World Academy, said,

That the first award goes to a local artist with a global reputation builds on the Irish World Academy record of linking the local with the global towards the mutual benefit of both.

Hayes and his group The Gloaming will soon release their second album on Real World Records on 28 February. Listen below to the first track release from the album.

For more on the Irish World Academy Artist appointment, visit http://goo.gl/A37s1j