Masters of Tradition

Celebrating traditional Irish music in its purest form, Masters of Tradition Music Festival is taking place in Bantry town from the 20th until the 25th August. Showcasing some of the finest musicians in Ireland, this vibrant music festival is one of Ireland’s leading and best-known music festivals.

An ideal event for those holiday in the region or for those in search of things to do in West Cork, the festival is set in the glorious town of Bantry. Musicians performing at this festival have the benefit of being able to play what they wish. Performances are set to take place in St. Brendan’s Church and Bantry House which is one of Ireland most exquisite historic mansions that dates back to the mid 1700’s.

The aim of this festival is to create a calm and intimate space where traditional music could be exposed whilst giving recognition to the masters of live music.  Martin Hayes, Artistic Director brings a distinctive touch and extravagant virtuousity to the festival.  His famous trance evoking sets with Dennis Cahill have mesmerised audiences around the land for years.

"When we started this festival in 2003, my belief was that a sufficient audience with interest in the most authentic form of Irish music must surely exist; that the music itself does not have to be shaped and bent to meet the perceived needs of an audience. In its purest form it speaks a universal language. I have sat through almost all of the performances each year of this festival and every time I leave Bantry, I do so with a renewed faith in the strength of this music." Martin Hayes, Artistic Director.

For hotels near Bantry, our hotel in West Cork is ideally situated just 28 kilometres from Bantry town in west cork.  For B&B Skibbereen benefits from a prime position in the heart of West Cork, ensuring that the range of attractions and sights of West Cork are all within a short drive from this Cork hotel.