Cork Opera House and Masters of Tradition present Martin Hayes with Cormac McCarthy & Special Guests

As part of Cork Opera House’s 170th anniversary celebrations, we are delighted to welcome the world renowned fiddle player, Martin Hayes to curate a very special evening of music that shines a spotlight on Cork’s deep and dynamic traditional music heritage.

In collaboration with Masters of Tradition – the internationally renowned Bantry-based festival where Hayes serves as Artistic Director – this one-night-only event will be a singular celebration of Irish traditional music, curated through the unique vision of one of its greatest living exponents.

Martin Hayes, known for his soulful and transcendent fiddle playing, will lead an evening that blends orchestral grandeur with the intimacy and authenticity of traditional session music. The Cork Opera House Concert Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Tom Crowley, will be joined on stage by Hayes’ long-time collaborator, the acclaimed pianist, composer, and arranger Cormac McCarthy. They will be accompanied by special guests drawn from Cork’s incredible pool of traditional musicians, all renowned for their connection to Cork and contribution to the city’s cultural tapestry.

Through original arrangements and special performances, this concert will celebrate Cork not only as a city steeped in musical history, but also as a vibrant hub of living tradition. Join us for an unforgettable evening that honours the past, celebrates the present, and signals toward the future of Irish traditional music.

SPECIAL EFFECTS: This production may contain Strobe Lighting, Flashing Lights, Smoke and Haze.

AGE GUIDANCE: Under 16’s must be accompanied by and seated next to a parent/guardian aged 18+

*Performance schedule and times are subject to change and may be affected by illness or events beyond the producers’ or venues’ control. Performers, dates, times, prices, and fees are subject to change without notice.