“The hottest group in the Celtic realm” – The Boston Globe
Altan is celebrating forty years on the road, bringing their native music to world-renowned stages. They have played Carnagie Hall, Sydney Opera House, and Dublin’s National Concert Hall. They have also played the famous Glastonbury Festival, Tradfest Temple Bar in Dublin, and Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Brittany.
Building on this history, their latest album, 2024’s Donegal, has received widespread positive reviews. Altan has long been at the forefront of traditional Irish music. Here, they blend the raw energy of their native Donegal-fiddle style with a rare, melodic sensibility. The first-ever Irish traditional band signed to a major record label, Boston Globe named them “The hottest group in the Celtic realm”.
The band’s original members are lead singer and fiddler Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Ciaran Curran on bouzouki, and Mark Kelly on guitar. Then, they are accompanied by accordion player Martin Tourish, and their newest member, fiddler and singer Clare Friel.
Altan has shared their music and musicianship with The Chieftains, Dolly Parton, Ricky Skaggs, John Prine, and more. Embarking on their fifth decade, their commitment to Donegal’s musical heritage ensures that it will endure for generations to come.
Recommended for fans of Dervish, Cherish the Ladies, The Waterboys and The Dubliners.
