We all love a bit of Trad.

And next month, Cork’s Northside is inviting musicians and newbies alike to celebrate our national songs and instruments as part of Féile Fearann Rí.

The event returns for its third year from Wednesday, April 9th until Saturday, April 12th. With legendary Corkonian John Spillane headlining the event, the festival will feature workshops, rehearsals, concerts, recitals, sessions and storytelling across key venues around the northside.

This year’s festival will bring together young traditional musicians from local schools, including Scoil Íosagáin, North Monastery National School, and Scoil Aiséirí Chríost, alongside adult trad and folk groups from the community, including Club Ceoil Knocknaheeny and Blarney.

Here’s a taste of what’s on: 

Thursday, April 10th

Workshops and group rehearsals with John Spillane from 10am-2pm in Farranree.

Gala Concert 7pm in The Church of the Resurrection in Farranree featuring John Spillane and traditional musicians of all ages from the northside of Cork City. Doors open at 6:30. Tickets available for €5 on Eventbrite.

Friday, April 11th

Traditional singing & sean-nós workshop with Sorcha de Róiste from 1PM-2pm in Hollyhill Library. Learn a song and more about the beauty of sean-nós (old Irish style singing) at a session open to all singers of all ages and experience levels. Beginners and newcomers to the Irish language are welcome. The workshop is fre and open to the public, but do register online here to claim a place.

Saturday, April 12th

Open, youth traditional music session 11am-12:30pm Hollyhill Library. Young musicians, singers, and dancers of all abilities are welcome to join a free session circle. Traditional music sessions are a really fun, social, informal way of playing traditional music. Stop by for a tune, song or chat – music tutors will be there to provide encouragement and help out.

Traditional Music & Song Concert by John Spillane 1pm-2pm in Hollyhill Library. This very special, intimate concert takes place in a wonderful community location. It is free and open to the public, but you can register for tickets to ensure a place here. Anyone with mobility or special needs may contact Hollyhill Library for assistance.

Polka & Slide Workshop from 2:30pm-3:30pm in Hollyhill Library with Matt Cranitch. Learn a new tune or two from one of the leading experts in Sliabh Luachra style traditional music. This workshop open to all traditional instrumentalists will focus on repertoire and is most suitable for intermediate players who have been playing for a couple of years or so. Register online here. The workshop is free and open to the public, but booking is essential.

You’ll find the full programme and tickets at creativetradition.ie/feile.