The Irish Festival of Oulu - Concert: Altan, and An Chéad Ghlúin Eile

Altan ”A mighty celebration of the bottomless well of the tradition” – The Irish Times “The hottest band in the Celtic realm” – The Boston Globe Altan are one of the most iconic bands in Irish music with a global reputation among Ireland’s most important cultural ambassadors. Irish-language songs and dynamic twin-fiddling, both hallmarks of Altan’s sound, pays tribute to Altan’s native County Donegal and its rich musical heritage, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Altan’s heart-warming, engaging and lively performances have moved audiences all over the world while remaining true to their Donegal roots, the spiritual home of Irish Fiddle music. No Irish traditional band in the last 40 years has had a wider impact on audiences throughout the world than Altan. Formed in County Donegal in 1985 by Donegal fiddler and lead vocalist Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and her late husband Belfast flutist Frankie Kennedy, Altan has been at the forefront of bringing the rich musical traditions of Donegal to audiences worldwide. In 2006 the Irish Government also honoured Altan by putting them on an official postal stamp to celebrate their contribution to the Irish culture, one of the highest honours to be bestowed on an Irish citizen. Over the course of their career, Altan has sold over a million records. An Chéad Ghlúin Eile will open the concert at 15:00 – 15:30. There will be intermission of 20 minutes and then Altan will perform Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh: fiddle, vocals Ciarán Curran: bouzouki Clare Friel: fiddle Mark Kelly: guitar Máirtín Tourish: piano accordion