KILRONAN CASTLE, CO. ROSCOMMON — July 2, 2026 — The historic halls of Kilronan Castle echoed with the timeless strains of traditional music last night, July 1st, as the 2026 O’Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School was officially launched. Gathering musicians, organizers, and patrons of the arts, the evening set a spectacular stage for the upcoming annual festival, which will return to the picturesque heritage village of Keadue, County Roscommon, from July 27th to August 3rd, 2026.

Established in 1978 to honor the life and enduring genius of Turlough O’Carolan (1670–1738)—Ireland’s iconic blind harper and composer who rests nearby in Kilronan Cemetery—the festival has grown into a cornerstone event on the international Irish cultural calendar.

Last night’s launch offered a stellar preview of this year’s highly anticipated lineup. Speaking at the launch, organizers emphasized the festival’s unique blend of immersive education, world-class performance, and deep community heritage.

Week of Musical Mastery and Living Culture

The festival’s renowned Summer School begins on Monday, July 27th, welcoming harpers and traditional musicians of all skill levels. Masterclasses led by globally respected tutors will offer daily instruction in an array of disciplines, including:

·         Morning Classes: Harp, Tin Whistle, Concertina, Bodhrán, and Set Dancing.

·         Afternoon Classes: Banjo, Flute, Button Accordion, Fiddle, Traditional Singing, and Sean-Nós Dancing (featuring advanced workshops with acclaimed dancer Eiméar Mulvey).

2026 Festival Highlights & Headliners

Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of free outdoor events, competitive showcases, and ticketed evening highlights, including:

·         The Opening Night Tutors Concert (July 27th): A lively introduction featuring the incredible talent of the summer school faculty at St. Ronan's Hall.

·         Mel Mercier’s Sonóir & Harp Showcase (July 31st): Presented in conjunction with Cruit Éireann (Harp Ireland), this headline concert features a ground-breaking piece by composer/percussionist Mel Mercier, alongside celebrated folk Harp instrumentalist Alannah Thornburgh and Niamh O Brian Harper,Malachy Robinson Viola da Gamba ,  John Leonard Basson, weaving baroque traditions into contemporary brilliance. The Keadue Harp Ensamble will also perform on the . stage

·         The Prestigious Harp Competitions (August 1st): Universally respected and continually sponsored by local business Arigna fuels Harvest Flame, drawing elite talent from across the globe.

·         Theatrical Drama (August 1st): A performance of the acclaimed play The Sand Park, written and performed by the beloved Seamus O'Rourke.

·         Téada in Concert (August 2nd): Celebrating 25 years on the road, the globally acclaimed traditional group takes the main stage at St. Ronan's Hall.

·         Living History and Heritage (August 3rd): The annual wreath-laying ceremony at O'Carolan’s grave, an academic lecture by Professor Luke Gibbons at Kilronan Castle, and the historic International Door Dancing Competition.

A

Community and Inclusivity at Its Core

"The O’Carolan Harp Festival is an authentic celebration of a living tradition," said a spokesperson for the Keadue Development Association. "From complete beginners trying the instrument for the first time at Keadue National School to master performers on our main stages, this festival is driven by a passionate community ensuring O'Carolan's legacy continues to inspire generations."

Tickets, registration for the summer school, and the full event timetable are now officially online

www.ocarolanfestival.ie