The Masters of Tradition Festival from 20 to 24 August in Bantry, Country Cork, will offer a five-day programme celebrating Irish traditional music, song, and dance in the scenic setting of West Cork. Visitors can expect a series of performances across venues such as Bantry House, a historic mansion overlooking Bantry Bay, Saint Brendan’s Church, and the Maritime Hotel, which hosts the opening concert.
The 2025 lineup, curated by artistic director Martin Hayes, includes artists such as Dave Flynn, Inni-K, Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh, Peter Browne, Des Geraghty, Nuala Kennedy, Eamon O’Leary, Lucia & Maria, Pádraig Ó Tuama, Brian Donnellan, Kate Ellis, and the Carlos Sweeney McCartin Trio, alongside local talents like Eimear Coughlan, Francis Cunningham, and Siobhán O’Donnell. The festival features evening concerts at Bantry House, with daytime events including talks at Marino Church, secret concerts at unique locations such as Future Forests in Kealkil and Whiddy Island, and informal sessions in local pubs like Ma Murphy’s.
These sessions highlight traditional music’s depth, showcasing both established musicians and emerging talent. Free and ticketed events cater to a wide audience, with workshops and masterclasses available for musicians of all levels. Visitors can explore Bantry’s Friday market, Bantry House gardens, or the Wild Atlantic Way, with accommodation options including the Maritime Hotel or local guesthouses. The festival’s intimate venues and focus on authentic musical expression create a distinctive experience for attendees.
Founded in 2003 by West Cork Music, the festival was initiated under the artistic direction of Martin Hayes, a renowned fiddler from East Clare, whose vision was to create a platform for the subtler elements of Irish traditional music, free from commercial pressures. Hayes, inspired by his own experiences growing up with the music, aimed to share its emotional and cultural depth with audiences, a mission that has defined the festival’s 22-year history.
Now in its 23rd year, the event has grown from a modest gathering to a significant cultural fixture, attracting music enthusiasts globally while retaining its focus on authenticity. Supported by the Arts Council and Cork County Council, it contributes to Bantry’s status as a key destination along the Wild Atlantic Way. Martin Hayes continues as artistic director, curating a programme that balances virtuosity, tradition, and innovation, as seen in the inclusion of sean-nós singing, dance, and international influences. His leadership ensures the festival remains a space where the heart of Irish music is explored, fostering connections between musicians and audiences.
The 2025 festival, set against Bantry’s picturesque landscape, will continue to offer a rich exploration of Irish musical heritage. Visitors are encouraged to check www.westcorkmusic.ie for the full programme and to book tickets early, particularly for Bantry House concerts, with priority booking available for Friends of Masters of Tradition. The event’s blend of performances, talks, and community engagement makes it a notable cultural experience.
