West Cork Music

In the height of summer the West Cork town of Bantry becomes one of the most important Festival destinations in Ireland with the West Cork Chamber Music Festival, West Cork Literary Festival and the Masters of Tradition Festival.

The historic town comes alive for nine days in late June and early July for the West Cork Chamber Music Festival with world-class chamber music from morning to night in the intimate library of historic Bantry House and the town's two beautiful churches, St Brendan's and St Finbarr's. It comes very highly recommended too - Claus-Christian Schuster of the Altenberg Trio said, “In almost a quarter of a century of chamber music playing, this is by far the most evocative, artistically valid and humanly touching festival I have attended”

The artistic activity continues for a further week with the West Cork Literary Festival which offers a packed programme featuring a wonderful line-up of leading novelists, poets, travel writers, broadcasters and children's writers. Readings, workshops, seminars and evening events take place in Bantry Library, The Maritime Hotel, the Mariner Restaurant, Bantry Bookshop and Ardscoil Phobal and you can even have Literary Tea in the luxurious setting of the dining room in Bantry House. There is really something for everyone and these two special festivals are eagerly anticipated by music-lovers, readers and writers everywhere.

The action continues in August with the much-loved Masters of Tradition Festival. Celebrating traditional Irish music in its purest form, this is a traditional festival with a difference and has become one of the most acclaimed traditional music events in the country.

However, the music doesn't stop when the last Festival musician puts down his instrument. West Cork Music is committed to presenting performances of the finest of music all year round and its Concert Series runs from September to May, featuring Irish and international soloists and ensembles.

This commitment extends to the younger generation as well. In the autumn months, quartets and soloists visit County Cork schools through Cork County Council’s Arts in Schools Programme which is organised and managed by West Cork Music. In the past year, Cork students have attended school workshops led by the Irish Brass Ensemble, Callino Quartet and traditional musicians.