The Midwinter Sessions

The Midwinter Sessions

About the event

“The Midwinter Sessions” brings together an extraordinary quartet of talent - Alyth McCormack, Tríona Marshall, Tara Breen, and Graham Henderson who will be performing a captivating blend of new material, traditional favourites, and seasonal songs.

Alyth McCormack’s mesmerising voice serves as a powerful anchor for the ensemble. Celebrated for her interpretation of Scottish Gaelic songs, Alyth has captivated audiences across four continents with her ability to convey both playful and heart-wrenching emotions with equal grace. Her voice, often described as “spine-tingling,” has garnered acclaim from critics and fans alike. Over her illustrious career, Alyth has shared the stage with musical legends such as Martin Carthy, Norma Waterson, and Ry Cooder. Her role as the featured singer with The Chieftains for the last 13 years has further solidified her reputation, while collaborations with icons like Kris Kristofferson and performances in renowned festivals worldwide showcase her incredible range and versatility.

Tríona Marshall, an acclaimed harpist, adds an expressive depth to "The Midwinter Sessions." With a background that bridges Irish traditional, classical, and contemporary music, Tríona’s performances are marked by emotional clarity and subtle virtuosity. A former member of The Chieftains, she has toured extensively in prestigious concert halls globally. Tríona has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including the celebrated piper Carlos Nunez and the renowned composer Shaun Davey. Her ability to weave traditional airs and contemporary compositions creates a rich tapestry of sound that resonates profoundly with audiences, inviting them into an intimate experience with the harp's enchanting tones.

Described as “a musical wizard” by Music Network, Tara Breen is a highly acclaimed Irish traditional musician from County Clare. A multiple All-Ireland Fleadh champion, she’s performed with legendary groups like The Chieftains and Stockton’s Wing, and tours internationally with the trio Breen | Rynne | Murray and the innovative band NOTIFY. Her long-awaited debut solo album,Sooner or Later, was released in early 2025. The album was named amongThe Irish Times’Top Five Albums of 2025 and showcases a compelling blend of Irish traditional tunes and original compositions, recorded alongside Seán Óg Graham and Dermot Sheedy. The album captures her deep connection to her Clare roots, while offering a thoughtful reflection on her musical journey. Alongside her performing career, Tara is also a passionate teacher, sharing her expertise through workshops and music education. 

Completing this remarkable lineup is Graham Henderson, a versatile multi-instrumentalist, keyboard player, composer, and producer whose talents have made him a cornerstone of the Irish and international music scenes for decades. With a prolific career spanning over 40 years, Graham has collaborated with icons and produced a vast array of works across genres. He has worked with legendary artists such as Sinéad O’Connor, Donal Lunny and the super-group Moving Hearts, contributing his talents to many acclaimed projects. His intricate piano compositions, showcased in his latest solo album, reflect a sensitivity and minimalist approach that complements the ensemble's rich sound palette. 

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Date: Sat 3 Oct

Location: The Séamus Ennis Arts Centre, Naul

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