Cathal Hayden’s Bow Brothers comprises of some of the biggest names in traditional music, featuring Tyrone maestros Cathal and Stephen Hayden, and award-winning County Armagh fiddler Niall Murphy. The trio will be joined by multi award-winning singer and guitarist Seamie O Dowd,legendary Fermanagh musician Brian McGrath and percussion extraordinaire Jimmy Higgins; a line-up that features some of the finest exponents of traditional music today.  

Described as one the foremost fiddle and Banjo player of his generation, Cathal Hayden’s recordings, both solo and collaborations with the acclaimed Four Men and a Dog or Máirtín O’Connor Trio and more recently with Christy Moore, have become standard bearers for emerging musicians over the last twenty years.  

Stephen Hayden, brother of Cathal, is regarded as one of the finest fiddle players of his generation. He first rose to fame as the fiddle player in energetic trad band Upstairs in a Tent, over 20 years ago. In more recent times, Stephen has performed as a guest with bands such as the Máirtín O’Connor Trio and Four men and a dog, before coming a full-time member of the ’Dogs’. 

Niall Murphy is one of the most talented fiddle players to have toured the world. He is a 5-time National Fiddle Champion, 3-time 'Fiddler of Oriel' and winner of 'Fiddler of Dooney'. Niall has toured with many global talents such as Nathan Carter, Cara Dillon, Breaking Trad, Doolin, The Roots Revival and many more. 

Their shows have been described as ‘powerhouse’ and ‘virtuosic’ as they deliver an ‘awe-inspiring level of energy and soul’, the Bow Brothers are sure to raise the roof of Empire Music Hall this July. 

Together, Mary Dillon, Dónal O’Connor, and Neil Martin create a spellbinding tapestry of traditional and contemporary sounds. Their collaborative efforts promise to breathe new life into timeless Ulster songs and tunes, marrying Mary’s evocative vocals with the expressive interplay of fiddle, cello, harmonium & uilleann pipes. 

Few singers are as cherished and revered as Mary Dillon. With a voice as pure as crystal and as deep as a spring well, this two-time All-Ireland singing champion hails from Dungiven in County Derry. The ‘voice of Déanta’, she has captivated audiences with her emotive vocals and passionate delivery for decades. 

Dónal O’Connor is one of Ireland’s leading producers and musicians. He comes from a long and distinguished line of Irish fiddlers and singers and his collaborations have variously included membership of Ulaid, At First Light, Lá Lugh and RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Singer Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh’s touring ensemble. He has brought his native Oriel music to all four corners of the globe and is the Artistic Director of Belfast Tradfest.

Hailing from Belfast, Neil Martin is a highly accomplished cellist and composer who has left an indelible mark on the world of classical and traditional music in Ireland. Born with a passion for both genres, Neil’s journey has been defined by his ability to seamlessly traverse the boundaries between them, creating a unique and captivating musical identity. 

“When three traditional music comets collide, sparks will surely follow” CQAF

Venue & Event Information:  

• Access to The Empire Music Hall is via approx. 12 stone steps with rails left and right. Two further sets of 2/3 steps into the foyer and main room.  

• Unfortunately, there is no lift access. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.  

• Limited unreserved seating

• Full bar available  

• 18+ only 

Address: 42 Botanic Ave, Belfast, BT7 1JQ