SOLAS

After nearly twenty years away, Solas return to Belfast — louder, bolder and more exhilarating than ever. 

Belfast TradFest welcomes one of the most influential forces in Irish music as American supergroup Solas make their long-awaited festival debut at Mandela Hall. 

For nearly three decades, Solas have stood at the very forefront of contemporary traditional music. Formed in New York in the mid-1990s, the band quickly became a phenomenon – blending Irish tradition with the energy of folk, Americana and modern songwriting, and setting a new benchmark for virtuosity, imagination and sheer musical power. 

Now, after an eight-year hiatus, the legendary ensemble has returned to the stage to celebrate their 30th anniversary, bringing their electrifying live show back to audiences around the world. 

The current lineup features founding members Séamus Egan (flute, whistles, mandolin and more), Winifred Horan (fiddle) and John Williams (accordion), joined by acclaimed musicians Nuala Kennedy (flute and vocals) and Alan Murray (guitar and bouzouki). 

Their return has been greeted with excitement across the global folk scene – a chance to hear the band that helped redefine the sound of Irish music in America, and whose recordings and performances have inspired generations of musicians. 

This concert also marks Solas’s first Belfast appearance in almost two decades. This summer, they return on a far grander scale. 

Expect blazing reels, soaring vocals and fearless musical invention as one of the most celebrated bands in Celtic music history takes the stage at Belfast TradFest for a rare and unforgettable night. 

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St. Patrick’s Music Festival is curated by Belfast TradFest as part of Belfast’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations, supported by Belfast City Council and Arts Council of Northern Ireland.