Fleadh Cheoil highlights Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2023

The Fleadh Cheoil series returns to the TV screens tomorrow, Friday January 12, showcasing the best of Irish traditional music from Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2023.

Following a successful homecoming in 2022, the fleadh returned to Mullingar – the site of the first Fleadh Cheoil in 1951.

Joining the fleadh crew for the first time is Dáithí Ó Sé, expertly shown the ropes by fleadh stalwart, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, in a series that captures the craic, colour and ceol of Ireland’s biggest traditional music festival.

Across six episodes, viewers gon on a ramble through Mullingar, enjoying the street sessions and getting fully immersed in what Fleadh Cheoil is all about.

Dáithí and Muireann meet with a plethora of musicians, many of whom are also great friends, including Gradam Ceoil bursary recipient Méabh Smith and pals.

This year, there are special performances along the Royal Canal, including Siansa Gael Linn Winners 2023, Binneas.

The pride of doting parents is apparent, as children and adults take part in Scoil Éigse, and the many other competitions that are an integral part of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Visitors and residents are joined by colourful characters enjoying spontaneous music sessions amidst the glorious August sunshine reflecting the beauty of Mullingar.

Guests include Seán Keane with Fergus Feely and Shane MacGowan, Tom Doorley, Iarla Ó Lionáird with Cormac McCarthy and Matthew Berrill, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Martin Hayes with David Power.

There are ceili from around the globe, including The Dartry, The Melbourne and the Liverpool Ceili Bands, and New Yorker Joanie Madden brings a flavour of the Big Apple to proceedings, along with the incredible ensemble, Cherish the Ladies.

The series is a Red Shoe Production for RTÉ.

The series starts on RTÉ 1 ON Friday January 12 at 8.30pm.