Music Generation Cavan/Monaghan and Belfast TradFest 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, the music has been newly reimagined in powerful arrangements by acclaimed Monaghan composer Michael Rooney.

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

Drawing performers from Irish traditional and classical backgrounds 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 heart of the project is the music of Michael McGoldrick, 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 work has helped shape 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 tradition, 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 statement highlighting the enduring relevance of Irish traditional music and its power to inspire and unite across borders and generations.