Réalta

Described by the Irish Music Magazine as "a full bodied pipe and whistle extravaganza”, this multi-instrumentalist group present an enchanting programme of dance music interspersed with the occasional story, air and song. While Conor Lamb and Aaron O’Hagan pursue the melody on uilleann pipes and whistles, guitarist Deirdre Galway explores the harmony and rhythms within the tunes. All Ireland champions Dermot Mulholland and Dermot Moynagh complete the line-up with dynamic accompaniments on double bass, bouzouki, banjo and bodhrán.

Having toured in Germany and Switzerland alongside Irish music legends, ‘Altan’; won the prestigious ‘Danny Kyle Award’ at Celtic Connections Glasgow and performed as far afield as India and South Korea, these young musicians have earned a reputation for delighting audiences with the enthusiasm, energy and passion they bring to traditional music.     

Their second album, ‘Clear Skies’ which is due for release in April 2016 has been described by John McSherry as "delightfully spirited and masterfully executed”,

Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh (Altan) commented, "youthful, energetic, stellar music, from one of Ireland's finest bands!"

The festival committee are delighted to be welcoming yet another band that are gracing the main stage at Gig’n the Bann for the first time!