Families have long played a key role in passing down Irish and other traditional music, both in Ireland and the diaspora. The McGoldrick family from Manchester exemplifies this tradition, with their album One For The Road showcasing the musical talents of four family members: Michael on uilleann pipes/flute, alongside his nieces Catherine on wooden flute, Ciara on concertina/vocals, and Mairead on whistle/bodhrán, accompanied by guitarist Jimmy Patrick. Michael, influenced by musicians like Matt Molloy and Seamus Tansey, has become one of the most prominent traditional musicians of his generation, while his nieces, each accomplished in their own right, have furthered the family’s musical legacy, blending traditional roots with contemporary flair.

Siblings Séamus and Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta hail from the Gaeltacht region of Connemara. They are noted for their sean nós singing and unique arrangements of both Irish and English language songs. Their performances benefit from the vocal tones that only families share. Their Late Late Show performance in 2022 of the soulful lament Anach Cuain went viral around the world. They are also accomplished multi instrumentalists who keep the Irish language and their heritage at the heart of all their musical endeavors. In 2023 they released their debut EP Séamus & Caoimhe which was produced by Brian Whelan and Riverdance composer Bill Whelan. Séamus and Caoimhe are the recipients of the RTÉ Folk Award for ‘Best Emerging Artists’ 2024.