PICTURES: The harp initiative returns to Keadue National School on Friday,  31st July

The picturesque, award-winning heritage village of Keadue, County Roscommon—the final resting place of legendary blind Irish bard Turlough O’Carolan—is proud to announce the return of the annual O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School with the official opening and tutors’ concert taking place on Monday, 27th July at 8.30pm.

The event brings together musicians, dancers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe to celebrate the lasting legacy of Ireland's master harp composer.

The week-long community-led gathering expertly weaves premier concert performances, a renowned immersive summer school, and high-stakes traditional music competitions into an unforgettable festival experience.

READ NEXT: 451 Leitrim children without gaelscoil access, group warns

The festival kicks off on Monday, July 27th with the Summer School, offering extensive, interactive daily workshops led by some of the finest traditional musicians in the country (including celebrated harp tutors Aishling Lyons, Niamh Mc Gloin and Emma Benson. Designed for all ages and skill levels, registration is open now online at https://www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie/

The daily class schedule includes:

Morning Classes (10:00 AM): Dedicated tuition in Harp, Bodhrán, Tin Whistle, Set Dancing, and Banjo.

Afternoon Classes (2:00 PM): Specialized masterclasses in Button Accordion, Fiddle, Concertina, Flute, Guitar, and Traditional Singing. Dance Workshops (3:30 PM): Advanced Sean-Nós Dancing led by renowned tutor Eiméar Mulvey (Beginners are welcome during the afternoon slot). Community Outreach: The community-favorite “Try the Harp” initiative returns at Keadue National School, providing an open, supportive environment for beginners of all ages to physically play the instrument for the first time.

READ NEXT: National Pyjama Day fun raises over €1000 for children in Leitrim

O'Carolan Country Céilí Band playing on Tuesday, 28th July in St. Ronan's Hall at 9pm. Piper's Cross Céilí Band are playing on Thursday, 30th July in St. Ronan's Hall at 9pm.

Harp recital will in Kilronan Castle on Wednesday, 29th July at 8.30pm featuring harpers Emma Benson, Aoife Guckian, Sophie Daly and Fiachra Guihen joined on the night by Clodagh Daly, Ellen Godley, Míchéal Fitzgibbon and Mossie Martin.

The Sand Park, drama by Seamus O'Rourke on Saturday, 1st August in St. Ronan's Hall at 9pm and there will be a centerpiece performance by trad giants, Téada, live in St. Ronan's Hall on Sunday, 2nd August.

READ NEXT: Proposed 24-hour gym development in Leitrim stalled amid TII road safety concerns

Community Fun & Free Events: The weekend features a dedicated Junior Music Session to encourage young talent, and free open-air Street Music in the local heritage park featuring David James, alongside the famous International Door Dancing Competition.which will be held in the hall in the village. The Harp Competitions: A core pillar of the festival since its inception, the highly competitive Harp competitions will take place in St. Ronan's Hall, on Saturday, 1st August beginning at 10.30am.

Join the Celebration: Whether you are a seasoned harper looking to master your craft, a beginner exploring Irish music, or a visitor seeking authentic Irish culture in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the O’Carolan Harp Festival offers an unmatched community atmosphere.For the complete schedule, tutor profiles, competition registration, and event ticket purchases, please visit the official website at www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie.