Altan Concerts

Experience Altan

Altan is a renowned Irish traditional music band formed in the early 1980s in County Donegal, Ireland. Known for their authentic and vibrant interpretation of Donegal’s rich musical heritage, Altan has played a pivotal role in popularizing Irish folk music worldwide. The band’s core members include Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh (vocals and fiddle) and her husband Frankie Kennedy (flute and whistle, until his passing in 1994). Altan’s style is deeply rooted in the traditional Irish fiddle tunes, jigs, reels, and ballads, characterized by Ní Mhaonaigh’s haunting vocals and expert fiddle playing that bring an emotional depth to their performances.

Over their illustrious career, Altan has released numerous critically acclaimed albums such as *Island Angel* (1993), *Runaway Sunday* (1997), and *The Widening Gyre* (2015). They have garnered international acclaim for their dynamic live shows and have collaborated with prominent artists across genres. Altan has received multiple awards including BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards for Best Traditional Group. Their dedication to preserving and evolving Irish traditional music continues to inspire new generations of musicians globally.