flutopia

Belfast TradFest proudly presents its annual celebration of the wooden flute, an instrument deeply woven into the city’s musical identity. 

Belfast is synonymous with the sound of the flute. The local style is marked by its driving energy and creativity, with a hypnotic pulse that draws listeners into a trance-like rhythm. This much-loved annual concert showcases some of the world’s finest traditional flute and whistle players in a dynamic evening of both solo and collaborative performances.   

Sylvain Barou – A Breton multi-instrumentalist of international renown, Sylvain is celebrated for his virtuosic flute playing and his work bridging Irish, Breton and global traditions. 

June Ní Chormaic – A highly respected flute player from Co. Sligo, June is known for her North Connacht style. A TG4 Young Musician of the Year and All-Ireland champion, she has toured internationally and released acclaimed recordings. 

Michael McGoldrick – Manchester-born, Michael is one of the most influential flute and whistle players of his generation, a founding member of Lúnasa and a menber of Capercaillie and Mark Knopfler’s touring ensemble, renowned for his distinctive sound and innovation. 

Éimhear Flannery – A musician from Cork and recent Seán Ó Riada Gold Medal winner, Éimhear is known for her lyrical, expressive style and deep musical sensitivity. 

Gino Lupari – A founding member of Four Men and a Dog, Gino is one of Ireland’s most celebrated bodhrán players, renowned for his energy, precision and rhythmic drive. 

Patrick Davey – A leading figure in the Belfast traditional music scene, Patrick is known for his strong, driving flute style and his role in sustaining and developing the local tradition. 

John Blake – London-born and now based in Galway, John is a highly regarded guitarist and accompanist, known for his sensitive, rhythmic playing and musical versatility. 

Fergal O’Brien – An accomplished bodhrán player and educator based in County Armagh, Fergal brings a dynamic rhythmic dimension to ensemble playing, combining subtlety, control and drive.