Michael McGoldrick Trio & Cross Border Youth Folk Orchestra

Michael McGoldrick Trio + Cross Border Youth Folk Orchestra at Ulster Hall on 16 March 2026

Belfast TradFest and Music Generation Cavan/Monaghan unite once again in a landmark cross-border collaboration, bringing together young musicians on a scale rarely seen in traditional music. This ambitious project breathes new life into a selection of iconic compositions by internationally renowned Manchester-born flute player and composer Michael McGoldrick. Featuring classics such as James Browne’s March, Waterman’s and Farewell to Whalley Range, newly reimagined in powerful arrangements by acclaimed Monaghan composer Michael Rooney.

Following the resounding success of last year’s concert featuring Máirtín O’Connor & Zoë Conway, this highly anticipated second edition builds on what proved to be an extraordinary celebration of traditional Irish music, youthful creativity and collective ambition. Performed by a spectacular folk orchestra of over 100 musicians, the music will resonate across St Patrick’s Weekend, culminating in a major performance in Belfast’s iconic Ulster Hall.

Drawing performers from both Irish traditional and classical backgrounds, from across the island of Ireland — including the border counties, Belfast and across Ulster — the ensemble reflects the living, evolving nature of traditional music and its enduring power to connect communities.

At the centre of the project is the music of Michael McGoldrick, internationally respected as one of the most influential figures in contemporary traditional music. A virtuoso multi-instrumentalist, he is celebrated for his mastery of the wooden flute, uilleann pipes, whistles and bodhrán. A founding member of Flook and Lúnasa, and a long-standing member of Capercaillie and Mark Knopfler’s band, his playing and compositions have helped shape the sound of traditional music for new generations worldwide.

Composer and arranger Michael Rooney brings a distinctive and imaginative voice to the orchestral dimension of the project. Deeply rooted in the traditional idiom, he is renowned for expanding traditional forms through rich harmony and inventive orchestration, while always honouring the essence of the music.

This landmark performance promises a thrilling celebration of tradition, innovation and youth — a bold, collaborative musical statement that highlights the enduring relevance of Irish traditional music and its power to inspire and unite across borders and generations.

This project is funded by Belfast TradFest, Music Generation Cavan/Monaghan, Belfast City Council, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Cavan County Council, Monaghan County Council, and Cavan & Monaghan Education and Training Board.