Ceol na bPíob, R.L. O’Mealy Piping Concert 

Presented by Belfast TradFest & An Droichead in association with Comharchumann Píobaireachta Bhéal Feirste / Belfast Piping Cooperative 

Wednesday 29th July | The Black Box | 6pm 

 This special concert brings together some of today’s finest pipers to celebrate the life, artistry and enduring influence of R.L. O’Mealy. A master of the uilleann pipes, O’Mealy’s legacy continues to resonate through generations of musicians. A member of the Church of Ireland, his story reflects the rich, shared cultural fabric of Belfast — a spirit of connection and exchange that lies at the heart of Belfast TradFest’s cross-traditions ethos. Through solo performance and collaboration, Ceol na bPíob honours both the depth of tradition and the creativity of today’s piping community. 

Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn 

An award-winning piper from Monaghan, Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn has been immersed in the tradition since his early days with Armagh Pipers Club. A multiple All-Ireland and Oireachtas winner, he received the prestigious Seán Ó Riada Bonn Óir in 2013. He has performed worldwide and collaborated with artists including Tommy Peoples, Laoise Kelly and the Vallely brothers, with recordings spanning Clannad to film soundtracks. 

Robbie Hannan 

 From Holywood, Co. Down, Robbie Hannan has been a central figure in Irish piping since the late 1970s. Influenced by masters such as Séamus Ennis, Willie Clancy and Tommy Reck, he has performed widely across Europe and the United States. A highly respected teacher, he has led advanced classes at the Willie Clancy Summer School and Scoil Acla. 

Ailis Sutherland 

Ailis Sutherland is a smallpiper and Highland piper from Kirriemuir, Angus, who began her musical journey in her local pipe band. As a soloist and member of ensembles including Hecla, she has performed across Europe and beyond, with appearances in Brittany, Scandinavia and Australia. Based in Glasgow, she is also a dedicated educator with the National Piping Centre. 

Jane Walls 

Jane Walls is one of the most exciting pipers of her generation, from Moneyglass, Co. Antrim. A seven-time All-Ireland champion and 2025 Senior All-Ireland winner, she has performed at Áras an Uachtaráin, Stormont and major festivals across Ireland. A versatile musician and educator, she is also featured on Na Piobairí Uilleann’s Mná na Píob Volume 2, celebrating female pipers. 

Bláithín Mhic Cana 

From Mullaghbawn, Co. Armagh, Bláithín Mhic Cana is a sean-nós singer and teacher with a deep commitment to the Oirialla song tradition. A member of the group Tempest and mentored by legendary Oriel singer and song collector Pádraigín Ní Uallacháin, Bláithín is now at the forefront of reviving the songs of South-East Ulster. A multiple award-winner and recent Gradam Cois Life recipient, her work bridges performance, education and language revival. 

Cormac ‘Buzz’ Ó Briain (Host) 

Cormac ‘Buzz’ Ó Briain is a central figure in Belfast’s uilleann piping community and a driving force behind the Belfast Piping Cooperative Comharchumann Píobaireachta Bhéal Feirste. Deeply involved in developing piping activity across the city, he has played a key role in supporting classes, concerts and events. As host, he brings both insight and deep connection to the tradition and its players.