Dublin: a nirvana for folk music fans

Dublin is often referred to as the party capital ofenjoy traditional folk music at most times of day
Europe; full of pubs, clubs and Irishmen extollingor night. Bars, cafes and hotels in Dublin are all
the virtues of 'the craic'. One thing you will find inplaces where you can find Irish Folk Music being
abundance in the Irish capital is traditional folkperformed by eager and talented local musicians.
music and you certainly won't have to travel veryPlus, you'll be able to enjoy just about any other
far around the streets of Dublin to find a place togenre of music in Dublin that takes your fancy,
have a jig and a swig!from rock to classical. So, if you are planning to
Whelan's in Camden Street, central Dublin is thevisit Dublin, or just toying with the idea, make
place to visit for traditional and folk music. Thissure that you are prepared for 'the craic'!
exciting venue has had most of Ireland's folkAnd if you are in any doubt as to how much the
talent perform on its stage at some point. Just aIrish love their music, take note of the following
stone's throw away, also in Camden Street, isexample. The Irish Post Office has recently
The Village - another vibrant music venue, that'sstarted selling a series of stamps that pay tribute
well worth a visit.to four iconic bands whose roots are based in
Vicar Street - despite its confusing name - is nottraditional Irish folk music; The Chieftans, The
a street but a fabulous traditional music venueDubliners, the Clancy Brothers and Tommy
and can be found in Thomas Street in the heartMakem, and Altan. The bands have been chosen
of Dublin. This prestigious venue opened in 1998because of the success they have had in taking
promising to give Dublin a mid-size venue thattraditional Irish folk music to the world. The
would 'punch above its weight'. It presents bandsinclusion of Tommy Makem is quite poignant as he
and solo artists that play all types and genres ofrecently passed away, and these stamps make a
music including traditional and folk, with big-namefitting tribute to his life-time contribution to making
Irish bands such as the Dubliners appearing at thisIrish music popular throughout the United States.
venue. Other artists that are slated to appear atThey are sure to become collectors' items, so be
Vicar Street include Dara O'Briain, Fionn Regan andsure to pick some up when you visit Dublin.
Brendan Grace proving that it is living up to itsAdam Singleton is an online, freelance journalist
promise to deliver quality acts.and keen amateur photographer from Scotland.
Plus, you'll find many more places where you canHis interests include travelling and hiking.