ALTAN
Altan
Icons of Irish Music • Cultural Ambassadors of Donegal
Altan is one of the most iconic bands in Irish music, revered worldwide as Ireland’s foremost cultural ambassadors. With their latest release, DONEGAL, the band continues to honor their homeland through Irish-language songs, twin-fiddle traditions, and melodies that capture the beauty of Donegal’s landscapes, culture, and history.
DONEGAL — A Tribute to Home
The new album DONEGAL frames Altan’s signature sound around the essence of their native County Donegal:
- Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh — lead vocals and fiddle, lending her angelic voice to “Liostáil mé le Sáirsint” and “The Barley and the Rye.”
- Clare Friel — newest member, sharing vocals on “Faoiseamh a Gheobhadsa” and adding fiery twin fiddle harmonies.
- Martin Tourish — accordionist and composer, shines on “The House of Baoithín”, honoring a 6th-century Irish saint.
- Dáithí Sproule (guitar), Mark Kelly (guitar, harmony vocals), and Ciarán Curran (bouzouki, mandolin) — the rhythmic and harmonic backbone.
- Special guests: Jim Higgins (percussion), Steve Cooney (bass), and Graham Henderson (keyboards).
Recorded at Stiúidió na Mara (“Seafront Studio”) by Manus Lunny, the album transports listeners to a bygone rural Ireland while forging a living link between past and present.
A Legacy of Impact
Formed in 1987 in County Donegal by Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and her late husband Frankie Kennedy, Altan has become one of the most influential Irish traditional bands of the last 30 years. With more than a million records sold worldwide, they remain at the forefront of Irish culture.
Hallmarks of Altan’s sound include:
- Irish-language songs that preserve and celebrate the Gaelic tradition.
- Twin fiddling that drives their dynamic arrangements.
- Blending tradition with contemporary artistry, ensuring Irish music continues to thrive for new generations.
Cultural Ambassadors
With sold-out performances across Europe, North America, and Asia, Altan has been called “one of Ireland’s greatest cultural treasures.” Their music unites communities, carrying the soul of Donegal to stages around the world while preserving its history at home.
Altan’s DONEGAL: A celebration of place, heritage, and the living spirit of Irish traditional music.
Upcoming Concerts at Dosey Doe
No upcoming concerts scheduled for ALTAN. Check back for more live music events in The Woodlands at Dosey Doe!
Past Concerts
- Wednesday, March 04, 2020