TradFest 2021 will be kicking off in Ireland tonight on RTÉ with their new special Ireland in Music. The special will capture some of Ireland’s top musicians in some of Ireland’s most beautiful locations. Some of the artists involved are Mundy, Sharon Shannon and Denise Chaila in various locations such as Brú na Bóinne, Newgrange and The Burren.
Ireland in Music will be broadcasted on RTÉ tonight and will then tour festivals in 2021, to broadcast Irish talent to the world. Sharing the trailer on Instagram, the Ireland in Music account said; “The world premiere of a new platform for Irish music. Our aim is to promote Irish music globally with high quality projects.”
The film was formed in May of this year with the creators of TradFest with the aim of showcasing Irish musicians to people abroad. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, artists couldn’t tour and felt they lost that connection to their fans. Tradfest decided to create this piece to bring people together and show the stunning landmarks Ireland has to offer.
The film was recorded throughout September and October with varying degrees of lockdown and social distancing rules. Producer and director, Donal Scannell spoke about the special saying that “in many ways Ireland In Music is a celebration of what’s possible even during the darkest days.” He also added; “This musical mixtape is a snapshot of Ireland as filtered through the ears, mouths, hearts and souls of the enlightened.”
Donal Scannell also said in a piece he wrote for RTÉ about his obsession with Irish music and television said; “Netflix, although still only a small percentage of the total TV market, has helped us all realise that TV has been globalised. This is a great opportunity for Irish programme makers to make shows not only for Ireland, but for the world.”
Ireland in Music will be broadcasted on RTÉ tonight, the 29th of December, at 8pm. It will also be available on the RTÉ player in the UK.