The linchpin sound of legendary groups like Sweeney’s Men, Planxty and The Bothy Band – between them Andy Irvine and Dónal Lunny have been at the heart of folk music in Ireland for over five decades. Their unique style of accompaniment endures today as a powerful influence on successive generations of musicians. 

Irvine and Lunny will present a programme of Irish music and Andy’s own songs, with a side order of Eastern European tunes. Andy will play Seán’s bouzouki, which was originally presented to Andy by the late Diane Guggenheim – founder of Tradition Records, and later given to Seán. The instrument has been specially restored for the series by luthier Frank Tate, who will also be joining us over the weekend.