Join us at Bandon Folk Club on Friday, January 31st, for an unforgettable evening with Ríoghnach Connolly, BBC Radio 2’s Folk Singer of the Year. Hailing from a rich musical heritage in Armagh and now based in Manchester, Ríoghnach is a powerhouse vocalist, flautist, and lyricist with an impressive international career. She has toured and recorded with acclaimed groups such as The Breath, HoneyFeet, Band of Burns, and Afro Celt Sound System. Don’t miss this chance to experience her extraordinary talent and magnetic stage presence in the intimate setting of Bandon Folk Club. Tickets are limited, so book now!

“(Connolly is) A remarkable singer and flautist…who can ease from Irish traditional influences to soul.” The Guardian

“Delightfully undefinable…irrepressible, inimitable,” Folk Radio

“A voice that echoes back through the ages of jazz and soul, resonant and resplendent in glorious, exploding power and control.” Manchester Music

“Connolly is a free spirit and strikingly self-assured…seldom has conspicuous greatness been more accessible.” Mike Butler, CityLife / Dyverse Music

The opening act on the night will be Martin Leahy. Martin is a multi-talented musician, songwriter, and producer who has been captivating audiences with his solo music for the past four years. With a career spanning 25 years as a session musician, he has worked with iconic Irish artists such as Christy Moore, Declan Sinnott, and John Spillane. 

Martin's recent work has brought him national and international recognition. His powerful song Everyone Should Have A Home, written about Ireland’s housing crisis, has become an anthem for change. Since May 2022, he has protested weekly outside Dáil Éireann by performing the song, garnering extensive media coverage, including features in The Guardian, NPR, Al Jazeera, and Irish national outlets. The song has also been covered by multiple artists to raise awareness. 

Another highlight of Martin’s career is Christy Moore’s cover of his song Snowflakes, which has been performed live by Christy at venues like Vicar Street and Cork Opera House. 

Martin has written songs in solidarity with Palestine and continues to support social causes through his music. A seasoned multi-instrumentalist and producer, his heartfelt lyrics and compelling performances make him a standout voice in the Irish music scene. 

Don’t miss this chance to experience Martin’s music live!