Taoiseach launches Temple Bar trad festival

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern tonight officially launched the Temple Bar Trad Irish Music and Culture Festival in Dublin.

The festival, which runs from January 25 to 28 is designed to bring culture back into the quarter and will host many of Ireland’s most talented traditional musicians.

More than 35,000 visitors are expected to be drawn to the event over the four days to hear performances including Sean McKeon, Liam O’Connor, Christina Pierce and Caoimhe Hogarty.

The Taoiseach said the festival provided a focal point for the wealth of culture, song and dance that helps define the identity of Irish people.

“Irish traditional music, song and dance are such an intrinsic part of our heritage,” he said.

“In many ways Irish history itself is echoed and expressed melodically in the diversity of its airs.

“While Irish music continues to evolve and reflect a changing Ireland, the beauty, complexity and uniqueness of our age-old song and dance tradition should also be preserved and celebrated.”

As well as concerts and special performances the festival will include children’s storytelling, workshops, family music sessions and a céili mór.

There will also be photographic exhibitions and a lively trad and folk trail through some of the pubs and bars in the area.

“I have heard it said that the truest expression of a people is in its dance and music and so it is marvellous to see the continuing vibrancy and popularity of our traditional arts sector,” Mr Ahern said.

“Although rooted in ancient tradition, Irish music and dance have seen a great resurgence in recent years and they have, in a sense, been rediscovered by a new generation.”