The Lyric Feature - RTÉ: Recent Episodes
RTÉ lyric fm
Irish broadcaster RTÉ lyric fm's weekly documentary slot. Programmes about music, literature, visual arts and other areas where creativity is manifest. Broadcast on Sundays at 6pm on RTÉ Lyric FM.
Chorus member and documentary maker Róisín Power opens the door into the world of the National Symphony Chorus of Ireland to ask why singers continue to give their time, their voices, and their hearts to this extraordinary ensemble as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Poet Jane Clarke explores the Avonmore River in County Wicklow through poetry and conversation.
Theo Dorgan explores poetic, mythical, historical and cultural links between Ireland and Galicia in north west Spain.
Mary Brophy explores the influences, characters and obsessions that brought Ireland's historic gardens into being. Part 2.
The poet Moya Cannon takes us to A Corner of the Burren to a place she discovered through her reading of Tim Robinson's maps, the triangle formed by Corcomroe Abbey, St. Colman's Well, Ought-mama and the 'Seven Churches’.
Chris Nikkel follows the story of a forgotten Irish migration to Canada through folk music passed down orally, and a special bicentennial commemoration.
Paddi Benson and Grace Lemon are two uilleann pipers who play and write music together in London. In their new Lyric Feature on RTÉ lyric FM, The Dead Reeds, they explore the stories bound up in uilleann pipe reeds
Brothers Ron and Greg Carey go back to Limerick, the city of their childhood, which holds memories that have inspired poems for both of them.
Composer and sound recordist, Karen Power and her microphones revisit the remote, magnetic spaces of the Arctic which she first visited and recorded more than a decade previously.
After lying forgotten for decades, the poems of Ethna MacCarthy, linguist, doctor, poet, and life-long friend of Samuel Beckett, were finally published in 2019.
An Italian superstar castrato in Georgian Ireland as reimagined by the Irish Baroque Orchestra
Rosa Mulholland (1841-1921) was a best-selling Victorian author of ghost stories, novels and essays whose work has been largely forgotten. Dr Sara Lodge explores her life, work and forward-thinking views on the role of women in society, follows in her footsteps to Inishbofin, and makes the case that such a talented writer should be remembered.
Culture File this feature explores voice, performance, and the politics of being heard, using the line “You talkin’ to me?” from Taxi Driver as a starting point.
A focus and celebration of the work of Author and Radio producer John Quinn who passed away recently.
Patricia Baker goes in search of the hidden history of a place behind a locked door in Dublin 8.
The poet Louis de Paor was born in Cork, but has not lived there for many years. In this evening's Lyric Feature, he goes back to explore the Cork of his childhood, where he first learned Irish, and the Cork that his father knew, that run throughout his poetry.
Poet Annemarie Ní Churreáin goes back to the Donegal Gaeltacht, where she grew up, and explores the folklore and history, landscape, language and personal experiences that all influenced her poetry.
Chris Nikkel follows the story of a forgotten Irish migration to Canada through folk music passed down orally, and a special bicentennial commemoration.
Documentary maker Róisín Power opens the door into the world of the National Symphony Chorus of Ireland to ask why singers continue to give their time, their voices, and their hearts to this extraordinary ensemble as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.
reland has white tailed sea eagles as well as golden eagles, both having been recently reintroduced. In this episode Anja Murray and Brían Mac Gloinn travel to Garinish Island in west Cork and also hear from National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Clare Heardman about the nesting and breeding habits of these wonderful birds.
Our Gold award winner from this Years IMRO awards. 'Der Musikmann' presented by George Hamilton.
An exploration of the powerful and enigmatic poem "The Song of Amergin" and the ancient Milesian legend in which it appears. Presented and Produced by JJ O’Shea Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast September 2020)
Theo Dorgan explores poetic, mythical, historical and cultural links between Ireland and Galicia in north west Spain.
Derry-born composer Seán Doherty is best known for his choral compositions, but in this Lyric Feature, 1001 Gems, he goes back to his roots in Irish traditional music.
Composer and sound recordist, Karen Power and her microphones revisit the remote, magnetic spaces of the Arctic which she first visited and recorded more than a decade previously.
This weeks Lyric Feature is -Black Syren, which tells the largely forgotten story of Rachel Baptist, a Black Irish soprano, who predominantly appeared in Irish "pleasure gardens” in the 1750s and 1760s performing arias by Handel and Arne among others.The feature is presented by journalist Saibh Downes.
"Ahead of her celebratory concert with the NSO, this feature reflects on the career of US-born composer Jane O'Leary, who has made an immeasurable contribution to contemporary Irish classical music since moving to Ireland in 1972."
Constance "Connie" Smith was born in 1929 on Limerick's Wolfe Tone Street and would later become a star who burned brightly, but all too briefly, during the golden age of Hollywood cinema.
Part 3 - The romantic imagination - Michael Lee explores the rich imaginative idealism that informed so much music in the Romantic Era.
In this three-part series, Michael Lee explores the rich imaginative idealism that informed so much music in the Romantic Era.
Patricia Baker goes in search of the hidden history of a place behind a locked door in Dublin 8.
'Wild' tells the story of Ireland's landscapes and its wildlife across past, present and future, exploring the ever changing relationship between people and nature through time.
The Lash, the groundbreaking album by The Pogues. Featuring exclusive contributions from James Fearnley and Jem Finer of the band, as well as Shane's sister Siobhan MacGowan, the programme delves into the album's enduring creative and cultural significance.
Scottish poet Kenneth Steven presents Deirdre of the Sorrows, exploring this ancient tale that continues to inspire writers and musicians today.
Presented by George Hamilton, this feature follows conductor David Brophy’s progress over his first six months with the WDR Funkhausorchester, on his new podium in Cologne. Observing the musical, cultural, and personal challenges this Irish conductor faces as he takes on one of the most prestigious positions in his field in Europe
Ireland has white tailed sea eagles as well as golden eagles, both having been recently reintroduced. In this episode Anja Murray and Brían Mac Gloinn travel to Garinish Island in west Cork and also hear from National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Clare Heardman about the nesting and breeding habits of these wonderful birds.
Skylark is a charismatic bird of open ground and the uplands, widely celebrated for their impressive singing ability. In this episode, ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinnbegin with the Skylarks’ fame in poetry, with poet Martin Dyar.
Lapwings are any of various ground-nesting birds akin to plovers and dotterels. They range from 10 to 16 inches in length, and are noted for their slow, irregular wingbeats in flight and a shrill, wailing cry.
Jays are colourful, vocal, and highly intelligent woodland birds. In this episode ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinn meet ornithologist Seán Ronayne in an autumn woodland to listen to stories these birds’ incredible capacity for mimicr
Feather and Flock delves in to the ways of six iconic native Irish birds. Each episode combines ecology, folklore and history to uncover the incredible lives and journeys of these wild creatures. We begin with the Cuckoo.
Poet Annemarie Ní Churreáin goes back to the Donegal Gaeltacht, where she grew up, and explores the folklore and history, landscape, language and personal experiences that all influenced her poetry.
The legacy of avant-garde art practice in 20th century Ireland is often considered a blank space. Yet the work of a remarkable archive is proving this to be a memory lapse.
Pianist Guy Livingston takes us on his quest for silence in music, from medieval chant to the future sounds of a trip to Mars. Presenter : Guy Livingston
Zoë Comyns tells the story of the relatively unknown Cork born writer and composer Ethel Voynich who sold millions of copies of her anti-Catholic novel The Gadfly in Russia in the early 1900s, campaigned with Russian anarchists to overthrow the Tsar.
Poet Jane Clarke explores the Avonmore River in County Wicklow through poetry and conversation.
In “The Golden Museum” J.J. O`Shea reflects on his experience as the child of Irish immigrants in London in the mid-twentieth century. The story is told through interweaving threads of original music and song, poetry.
In episode two, presenter Jonathan Grimes joins Nick Roth in Massey’s Estate in the Dublin mountains, where the composer and saxophonist leads a music and nature workshop with children.
This two-part documentary series, presented by Jonathan Grimes of the CMC, explores how Irish composers are responding to the climate and biodiversity crisis through their work. Episode 1: Once Heard You Can't Unhear It
This Friday 10/01/25 sees the Irish release of Maria,a biopic of Maria Callas with Angelina Jolie in the title role. But Liz Nolan got there first with a 2023 radio documentary where she told the story of the singer who she first encountered as a teenage soprano.
Poet Gerald Dawe explores the enduring appeal of the west of Ireland landscapes to writers and artists.
The Lash, the groundbreaking album by The Pogues. Musician and musicologist Mike Glennon delves into the album’s enduring creative and cultural significance.
The premiere of a new opera by composer Irene Buckley, inspired by the poem Chaoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire.
In 2018, actor Sharon Mc Ardle and playwright Declan Gorman set out to create a theatre piece based on diaries kept by revolutionary and writer Dorothy Macardle during her incarceration at the time of the Irish Civil War.
Approaching thirty years together as an ensemble, the ConTempo Quartet spent their formative years in Romania in Central Europe before moving to the west coast of Ireland as Galway Music Residency's Ensemble in Residence in 2003
Kate Meyrick was a trailblazer: a business woman, a nightclub owner, a mother and a celebrity prisoner. In spite of the fact that she made 100s of newspaper headlines there has never been a full length documentary made of her life.
In a change to our schedule, we rebroadcast Generational Resistance: Granny’s Intentions and the Birth of the Irish Beat Scene, featuring interviews with lead singer Johnny Duhan, who sadly died this week.
Ireland has white tailed sea eagles as well as golden eagles, both having been recently reintroduced. In this episode Anja Murray and Brían Mac Gloinn travel to Garinish Island in west Cork and also hear from National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Clare Heardman about the nesting and breeding habits of these wonderful birds.
In this episode ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinn visit a busy nesting colony of little terns on the Wicklow coast and talk with ternprogramme conservation manager from BirdWatch Ireland, Brian Bourke, about the lives of these beautiful birds.
Skylark is a charismatic bird of open ground and the uplands, widely celebrated for their impressive singing ability. In this episode, ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinnbegin with the Skylarks’ fame in poetry, with poet Martin Dyar.
US-born composer Jane O'Leary, who has lived in Ireland since 1972 and has made an immeasurable contribution to contemporary Irish classical music, looks back on her career.
Mary Brophy goes behind the scenes at the 71st Wexford Festival Opera as Artistic Director Rosetta Cucchi and her teams orchestrate their particular brand of alchemy.
The Lyric Feature returns for a new series opening with Building a Ballet one of the five Lyric Features shortlisted at the 2024 IMRO awards.
On this week’s Lyric Feature, we remember the poet, lecturer and regular contributor to our programmes Gerald Dawe who died last month.
Michael O’Shea was a musician from Carlingford, Co Louth who released one self-titled album in 1982 that is now regarded as a masterpiece of the Psychedelic Folk genre. Performed on oak door rescued from a skip in Munich.
‘Discovered’ by Guglielmo Marconi while singing at a fashionable soiree in London, the famous inventor subsequently brought Sheridan to Italy, to pursue her dream of becoming an opera singer.
As a child, Bairbre O'Hogan remembers her mother bringing an elderly friend to do her weekly shopping in Dún Laoghaire. Bairbre knew her as MrsVerschoyle, she only later appreciated just how successful and prolific an author she had been.
The sculptor Imogen Stuart and the poet Michael Coady died within a day of each
other on the 24 and 25th of March this year.
Each is remembered with a programme from the RTÉ archive in this evening’s Lyric Feature.
To mark the centenary of her birth, Liz Nolan explores the life and legacy of Maria Callas, the iconic Greek soprano, widely regarded as the most significant, inspiring and provocative opera star of the modern age.
Jays are colourful, vocal, and highly intelligent woodland birds. In this episode ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinn meet ornithologist Seán Ronayne in an autumn woodland to listen to stories these birds’ incredible capacity for mimicry.
Feather and Flock is a new six part series delving in to the ways of six iconic native Irish birds. Each episode combines ecology, folklore and history to uncover the incredible lives and journeys of these wild creatures. We begin with the Cuckoo.
Laoise O’Brien has spent the past twenty-five years championing an instrument often unfairly perceived as an instrument of torture, the recorder. Join Laoise as she embarks on a journey to tell the story of the recorder and its development during the ages.
An audio portrait of painter James Hanley, told through the eyes of his sitters, fellow artists, buyers, family and friends, a story of being creative, connecting and making a life in the uncertain world of the arts.
Micil Ned Quinn from Mullaghbawn in Co. Armagh was immersed in the folk arts from childhood and grew up to be a renowned traditional singer and songwriter. This programme celebrates and reflects upon the rural life and culture from which he came and that he himself embodied. (First tx 190323)
Ireland is on the verge of losing its population of breeding curlew, but could our songs, stories and art help us to save it?
The story of Irishwoman Kate Meyrick who operated the most decadent London nightclubs of the Jazz Age
Traditional Irish musicians from Donegal reinterpret scores collected by Séamus Ennis in the 1940s.
This two-part series presented by J.J. O'Shea brings us the fruits of a project initiated by folklorist Ríonach Uí Ógáin and supported by the Irish Traditional Music Archive. The project revisits The Irish Folklore Commission's collection of tunes and songs which were transcribed and notated by Séamus Ennis in Connemara and Donegal.
Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan presents six poets from four continents who are making their mark on the world of Irish poetry.
In A Place of Pointed Stones, Jessica Traynor explores the history and folklore of Banagher with local historian James Scully, and we hear new poems and a new song inspired by her research
Writing Yourself Home is presented by the Irish born but Manchester based poet Vona Groarke. Through a series of conversations with four fellow Irish poets, Vona muses on the complex relationship between national identity and writing.
Gerald Dawe explores the social and cultural history of Dun Laoghaire, where he has lived for over 30 years, in poetry and conversation.
Poet Eleanor Hooker reflects on Lough Derg and its place in the lives of those who live near it and on it
Poet Seán Lysaght explores the Wild Nephin area of north Mayo. For more episodes of The Lyric Feature go to the RTÉ lyric fm Podcasts.
The portrait painter James Hanley is the subject as sitter in this audio portrait of his life and work.
Laoise O'Brien explores a millennium of music through her own experiences as a recorder player.
Leontia Flynn, explores Sylvia Plath's lifelong admiration of WB Yeats. The programme also contains rare archive of Sylvia Plath speaking about Yeats and reading some of her work in a 1958 Library of Congress recording.
To mark the centenary of her birth, Liz Nolan explores the life and legacy of Maria Callas, the iconic Greek soprano, widely regarded as the most significant, inspiring and provocative opera star of the modern age.
Olivia O'Leary and poet Paddy Bushe follow the route of a long lost walk in Kerry, as described in a poem by Ellen Fitz-Simon, daughter of Daniel
Dorothea Herbet writer, poet, artist and proud spinster from Carrick On Suir. Ireland's Jane Austin. Unhoped for, unprecedented, discover the unique 'Dorothea The Doozy'.
Eoin ‘Stan’ O’Sullivan, Sliabh Luachra musician in residence, assists in the search for six old vinyl records. A story looking back at a musical tradition’s past and an effort to safeguard its future
When Sinéad O'Connor died in July this year the world was deprived of one of its most distinctive and significant voices. In 2015 Sinéad explored that voice with Iarla Ó Lionáird as part of his series Vocal Chords which was made for the Lyric Feature.
The literature and storytelling traditions associated with The Great Blasket have long been acclaimed both internationally and at home. It is surprising therefore that the music traditions of The Blaskets remain little heard. In The Western Island, J.J. O’Shea seeks to address this imbalance and explores this rich but lesser-known aspect of Blasket
Mary Brophy goes behind the scenes at the 71st Wexford Festival Opera as Artistic Director Rosetta Cucchi and her team orchestrate their particular brand of alchemy. Featuring live excerpts from RTÉ lyric fm's recordings of the 2022 opening opera La Tempesta, location recordings and input from the talented cast of performers and crew.
In A Place of Pointed Stones, Jessica Traynor explores the history and folklore of Banagher with local historian James Scully, and we hear new poems and a new song inspired by her research
The opening episode Writing Yourself Home is presented by the Irish born but Manchester based poet Vona Groarke. Through a series of conversations with four fellow Irish poets, Vona muses on the complex relationship between national identity and writing.
Irish composer and sound artist Robert Coleman brings us on a soundwalk of the River Dodder in South Dublin exploring the many facets of its wonderful, varied, rich history and its diverse wildlife. (Part 3 of 3)
Returning for a new three-part series Regan Hutchins joins old friends and makes new ones as he hears how we're spending our mornings, noons and nights. Episode 3 - Night
Returning for a new three-part series Regan Hutchins joins old friends and makes new ones as he hears how we're spending our mornings, noons and nights. Episode 2 - Noon
Irish composer and sound artist Robert Coleman brings us on a soundwalk of the River Dodder in South Dublin exploring the many facets of its wonderful, varied, rich history and its diverse wildlife. (Part 2 of 3)
Irish composer and sound artist Robert Coleman brings us on a soundwalk of the River Dodder in South Dublin exploring the many facets of its wonderful, varied, rich history and its diverse wildlife. (1/3)
Returning for a new three-part series Regan Hutchins joins old friends and makes new ones as he hears how we're spending our mornings, noons and nights. Episode 1 - Morning
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's six part series celebrating Irish trees. This week's tree is the Oak.
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's six part series celebrating Irish trees. Episode 2 - Hazel
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's series celebrating Irish trees. Episode 1 - Birch
Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan presents six poets from four continents who are making their mark on the world of Irish poetry.
Siobhán Mannion explores Kate O'Brien's banned novel about a young Irish woman's tumultuous trip to Spain in 1922
The Naked Soul of Man a story of music, leadership and resilience on Shackleton's Endurance Expedition
Oskar Cox-Jensen tells the stories of five songs, from across three centuries, which have travelled into and out of Ireland, across Europe, and around the world.
Micil Ned Quinn was renowned throughout Ireland as a traditional singer, songwriter and storyteller.
Paul McDermott immerses himself in the music of Sliabh Luachra by going on a quest to track down six Irish trad vinyl records released in 1977.
Ireland is on the verge of losing its population of breeding curlew, but could our songs, stories and art help us to save it?
Olivia O'Leary and poet Paddy Bushe follow the route of a long lost walk in Kerry, as described in a poem by Ellen Fitz-Simon, daughter of Daniel
Dorothea Herbert writer, poet, artist and proud spinster from Carrick on Suir. Ireland's Jane Austen. Unhoped for, unprecedented, discover the unique 'Dorothea The Doozy'
Leontia Flynn tells the story of the 1962 visit to Ireland of American poet Sylvia Plath.
Cathal Funge reveals the stories and music behind one of the great Irish albums, once lost to time only to be rediscovered by a new generation.
The life and poetry of Ethna MacCarthy, linguist, doctor, poet, and life-long friend of Samuel Beckett.
Unearthing Slow Airs traces the roots of four slow airs from four corners of Ireland to uncover how they have developed both culturally and musically, from their origin to now.
An audio walk through Marsh's Library, Ireland's first ever public library, a meander through centuries of knowledge, and rooms that hold stories that still captivate us today.
Sara Lodge retraces the Irish journeys of writer, artist and composer Edward Lear, best known as the author of The Owl and the Pussy-cat.
Reflections on the experience of growing up as the child of Irish immigrants in London told through a collage of music, poetry and commentary
Paper Boat Sets Sail is a documentary telling the story of the making of 'Paper Boat', a community opera for Galway.
Scottish poet Kenneth Steven explores the legend of Deirdre of the Sorrows, an ancient tale that continues to inspire writers and musicians today.
The Naked Soul of Man a story of music, leadership and resilience on Shackleton's Endurance Expedition
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's six-part series celebrating Irish trees. Episode 6: Oak
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's six-part series celebrating Irish trees. Episode 5 - Ash
Siobhán Mannion explores Kate O'Brien's banned novel about a young Irish woman's tumultuous trip to Spain in 1922.
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's six-part series celebrating Irish trees. Episode 4 - Willow
Ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían MacGloinn's six-part series celebrating Irish trees. Episode 3 - Holly
Root and Branch celebrating Ireland's native trees with ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinn. Episode 2 - Hazel
A new six-part series by ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinn (Ye Vagabonds) celebrates some of Ireland's native trees. Episode 1: Birch
Root and Branch celebrating Ireland's native trees with ecologist Anja Murray and musician Brían Mac Gloinn
This special Bloomsday edition of the Lyric Feature is an audio tour of Joyce's Dublin by father and son Gerry and Daragh Dukes.
Cathal Funge reveals the stories and music behind one of the great Irish albums, once lost to time only to be rediscovered by a new generation.
Gerald Dawe explores the social and cultural history of Dun Laoghaire, where he has lived for over 30 years, in poetry and conversation.
Poet Eleanor Hooker reflects on Lough Derg and its place in the lives of those who live near it and on it.
Composer Linda Buckley and producer Helen Shaw explore the genetic connections between Iceland and Ireland through story and song.
Composer Linda Buckley and producer Helen Shaw explore the genetic connections between Iceland and Ireland through story and song. (First broadcast December 2019)
Writer Sara Baume and radio producer Regan Hutchins hit Cape Clear Island to find rare vagrant birds but find some meaning to life instead.
Unearthing Slow Airs traces the roots of four slow airs from four corners of Ireland to uncover how they have developed both culturally and musically, from their origin to now.
Claire Cunningham tells the stories of three poets whose work has been rediscovered: Emily Lawless, Freda Laughton and Ellen Taylor.
An Italian superstar castrato in Georgian Ireland as reimagined by the Irish Baroque Orchestra
Ireland's Changing Nature. Anja Murray on how culture has shaped our relationship with nature. Episode 3 Wildling
Episode 2 - 'Taming' explores the transformations that arose in both landscape and culture with the discovery of metals.
Ireland's Changing Nature. Anja Murray on how culture has shaped our relationship with nature. Episode 1 - After the Ice
Mary Brophy travels to the heartland of Irish-America to tell the story of one of our most iconic ballads Danny Boy in one city, and attempt to uncover how it rose to such heights. (First broadcast 4th July 2014)
Claire Cunningham tells the stories of three poets whose work has been rediscovered: Dorothea Herbert, Florence Mary Wilson and Angela Greene.
Dráma véarsaíochta agus ceoil is ea ‘Lá dá raibh’ mar a bhfuil a dhán féin á aithris ag an bhfile Louis de Paor le ceol nuachumtha ón gcumadóir Meiriceánach Dana Lyn.
Dráma véarsaíochta agus ceoil is ea ‘Lá dá raibh’ mar a bhfuil a dhán féin á aithris ag an bhfile Louis de Paor le ceol nuachumtha ón gcumadóir Meiriceánach Dana Lyn.
One day is a work of fiction which tells the story of a day in the life of a small village in the west of Ireland.
The Connemara singer and melodeon player Colm Ó Caodháin and the enduring legacy of his music.
An audio walk through Marsh's Library, Ireland's first ever public library, a meander through centuries of knowledge, and rooms that hold stories that still captivate us today.
Sara Lodge retraces the Irish journeys of writer, artist and composer Edward Lear, best known as the author of The Owl and the Pussy-cat.
The many lives of the Smock Alley Theatre. Uncover the history of Smock Alley over three centuries, from the archaeological discovery in 2010 of the original theatre's walls and roof, the struggle to bring the ruins back to life, and a return to staging performances.
Curt Adler explores the intriguing parallel lives of two musical Parisians, Marcel Proust and Erik Satie.
Ian Maleney explores the work of four contemporary Irish writers, and examines the traditions, landscapes, and ideas which run through their unique and surprising books. (First broadcast 25th November 2018)
Laoise O'Brien travels to Amsterdam with the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland to follow their musical adventures in this historic and culturally rich city.
Words by Edward Lear. Setting by Emily Josephine Troupe Baritone Edward Robinson. Pianist David Owen Norris
Taking Flight is a series of radio essays by four different artists which were broadcast in October 2021 on Niall Carroll’s Classical Daytime. All the artists take the work of Patrick Kavanagh as a stepping off point for their own artistic pursuit.
Saucy Mistress Boldface is a peek through a Georgian window at life for women from 1746 to 1751 through a series of 221 letters from the Bishop Of Elphin to his only teenage daughter Alicia. We hear about music, fashions, lazy servants, exotic fruits and women’s health.
Brian McIvor unravels the mystery surrounding Allegri's Miserere Mei, one of the most celebrated and hauntingly beautiful pieces of early music.
Claire Cunningham tells the story of how the tiny island of Inishlacken, off the coast of Galway, inspired three Belfast artists 70 years ago and continues to inspire artists today
A Symphonic Life is an intimate portrayal of Ireland's most prolific symphonist, John Kinsella. Presenter: Mary Brophy.
Claire Cunningham tells the stories of three poets whose work has been rediscovered: Olivia Elder, Cathleen O'Neill and Madge Herron
Singers Ian Bostridge, Natalie Perez and Sophie Daneman on Beethoven's settings of Irish folk songs. Presented & Produced by Jon Tolansky (First broadcast 1st November 2020)
An exploration of the rich diversity of flora and fauna and archaeological sites along the River Inny in South Kerry. Presented and produced by JJ O'Shea. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 7th March 2021)
Oskar Cox-Jensen tells the stories of five songs, from across three centuries, which have travelled into and out of Ireland, across Europe, and around the world. A Rockfinch production Producer: Claire Cunningham Sound supervision: Tinpot Productions Recording supervisor: Craig Jackson Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Ye Vagabonds Brían Mac Gloinn tells the story in word and song of the rescue of 18 Dutch sailors off Arranmore Island in December 1940. Written, presented and performed by Brían Mac Gloinn. Produced by Brían Mac Gloinn & Eoin O Kelly (First TX 24th Dec 2020)
Zoë Comyns explores the life of Ethel Voynich, the Cork born writer, revolutionary and composer who became a Soviet literary sensation. Presented and produced by Zoë Comyns. Producer for RTÉ lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 15th March 2020)
A radio essay based around the poetry of Patrick Kavanagh, The Meadow is written in the voice of unnamed fictional character, whose long life has been lived in the rhythms and sounds of a place deeply known. Narrated by Eleanor Methven Producers: Tadhg O’Sullivan and The Patrick Kavanagh Centre Written By: Tadhg O’Sullivan
Island Time is a multimedia monologue written and performed by Kevin Barry at Inis Oírr Lighthouse. Sound design is by Foley artist Jean McGrath and the piece was made with support from the Commissioners of the Irish Lights. Produced by Eoin O Kelly and Elizabeth Laragy (First broadcast 21st March 2021)
Kevin Barry's Island Time and Louise Manifolds On the Ice Edge. Work from Aerial / Sparks at Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture. Produced by Eoin O Kelly and Elizabeth Laragy (First broadcast 21st March 2021)
On the Ice Edge is a sound composition by Louise Manifold which was inspired by the artist’s participation in survey work on board the Marine Institute’s Celtic Explorer. It features original text by Louise Manifold performed by Adrian Crowley, sound recordings by John Brennan and Louise Manifold with sound design by foley artist Jean McGrath.
An Italian superstar castrato in Georgian Ireland as reimagined by the Irish Baroque Orchestra. Written, researched and presented by Michael Lee Produced by Michael Lee and Eoin O Kelly
Narrated & Written by Annemarie Ní Churreáin Producers: Eithne Hand and The Patrick Kavanagh Centre Producer for RTÉ Lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly
A meditation on lost time and the creative process, with musicians from the Edges of Light. Presenter: Ellen Cranitch Producer: Eoin Brady
Narrated & Written by Jaki McCarrick Producers: Aidan Guilfoyle and The Patrick Kavanagh Centre Sound Editing: Aidan Guilfoyle Producer for RTÉ Lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly
An RTÉ archive clip from 1970 of Seán Ó Riada talking with Liam Nolan about The Beatles and The Chieftains.
Narrated & Written by Manchán Magan Producers: Eithne Hand and The Patrick Kavanagh Centre Contributors: Brian Mac An Bhaird & Gretta Kieran Producer for RTÉ Lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly
Anja Murray on how culture has shaped our relationship with nature. Episode 3 Wildling Presented & Produced by Anja Murray Researcher: Lenny Antonelli Original Score: Kevin Murphy Editing and sound design: Julien Clancy Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly
Anja Murray on how culture has shaped our relationship with nature. Episode 2 - Taming Presented & Produced by Anja Murray Researcher: Lenny Antonelli Original Score: Kevin Murphy Editing and sound design: Julien Clancy Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Anja Murray on how culture has shaped our relationship with nature. Episode 1 - After the Ice Presented & Produced by Anja Murray Researcher: Lenny Antonelli Original Score: Kevin Murphy Sound Design: Julien Clancy Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly
The life and poetry of Ethna MacCarthy, linguist, doctor, poet, and life-long friend of Samuel Beckett. Presented and produced by Claire Cunningham. A Rockfinch production with support from the BAI. Sound Supervision Tinpot Productions Producer for RTÉ lyric fm Eoin O Kelly
Pat Feeley examines origins of the traditional Irish song the Limerick Rake. Presented and produced by Pat Feeley. (first broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1 on January 31st 1989)
Pat Feeley meets with poet Sean Healy who has moved home to Kerry and is working as a farm labourer. Presented and Produced by Pat Feeley (First broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1 on 3rd July 1977)
This collaboration between former RTÉ lyric fm Composer in Residence, Sebastian Adams, and writer and broadcaster Jools Gilson, is a rainy fairy tale for your ears, broadcast on the eve of St. Swithin's Day. Written by Jools Gilson Sound Design: Sebastian Adams (First broadcast July 14th 2017)
Jimmy Noone was postman for 21 years in the village of Keadue, Co. Roscommon. He shares some of his memories with Pat Feeley. Presented and Produced by Pat Feeley (First broadcast December 7th 1994)
Pat Feeley meets with people from all walks of life as he travels along the banks of the River Feale which has its origins in Co. Cork. Presented and Produced by Pat Feeley (First broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1 on March 13th 1981)
Pat Feeley travels to the Sliabh Luachra region in search of the story of one of Ireland's greatest traditional fiddle players, Tom Billy Murphy. Presented & Produced by Pat Feeley (First broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1 on April 26th 1980) Series compiled by Peter Curtin
The Song And The Story was a short series that explored the stories behind popular and not so well-known Irish songs. In this edition, Pat discovers the origins of the Clare song ‘Spancil Hill’. Presented and Produced by Pat Feeley (First broadcast August 24th 1990)
Mary Brophy explores the influences, characters and obsessions that brought Ireland's historic gardens into being. Writer & Presenter: Mary Brophy Producer : Neal Boyle An IWR Media production Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Nov 2017)
Mary Brophy explores the influences, characters and obsessions that brought Ireland's historic gardens into being. Writer & Presenter: Mary Brophy Producer : Neal Boyle An IWR Media production Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Nov 2017)
Programme 4 Conflicted States Art critic Cristín Leach explores how ideas of Ireland and Irish identity have been visually represented, over three hundred years. An IWR Media production. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Jan 2020)
The life and poetry of Francis Ledwidge, who was killed in Flanders on 31st July 1917 just weeks before his 30th birthday. Produced by Claire Cunningham Sound supervision by Tinpot Productions. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 2017)
Conductor Peter Whelan's fascinating research into the 18th century Irish baroque musician, Matthew Dubourg. Presenter : Máire Nic Gearailt Producer: Joe O’Dubhghaill Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Programme 3 Nation States Art critic Cristín Leach explores how ideas of Ireland and Irish identity have been visually represented, over three hundred years. An IWR Media production for RTE lyric fm. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Jan 2020)
A profile of the experimental multi-instrumentalist and composer the late Jolyon Jackson. Presented and Produced by Peter Curtin. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First Broadcast June 2017)
Programme 2 Politics & Poverty Art critic Cristín Leach explores how ideas of Ireland and Irish identity have been visually represented, over three hundred years. An IWR Media production. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Jan 2020)
Irish violin bow-maker Gary Leahy takes us on a sonic journey in search of exotic materials for a top end bow from Brazilian pernambuco wood to Mongolian pony tail hair. Presented & Produced by Eamon Little Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Dec 2016)
Programme 1: Land & Life Art critic Cristín Leach explores how ideas of Ireland and Irish identity have been visually represented, over three hundred years. An IWR Media production. Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Poet Pat Boran brings us on a poetic exploration of Bull Island in Dublin Bay. A Rockfinch Production Sound supervision by Tinpot Productions Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast October 2020)
An exploration of the powerful and enigmatic poem "The Song of Amergin" and the ancient Milesian legend in which it appears. Presented and Produced by JJ O’Shea Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast September 2020)
Ian Maleney explores the work of four contemporary Irish writers, and examines the traditions, landscapes, and ideas which run through their unique and surprising books. Presented & Produced by Ian Maleney Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast Nov 2018)
Eavan Boland talks about her life and work. Presenter: Kay Sheehy Producer: Helen Shaw An Athena Media production (First broadcast in 2008)
Seamus Heaney on Seamus Heaney a guided tour of Heaney via RTÉ's archives. Presented and produced by Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast in 2009)
In this final episode, Diarmuid McIntyre and Cristín Leach complete their journeys through the worlds of 12 Irish artworks as they emerge from the leafy woods of “The Startled Bird” (1961) by Norah McGuinness Hugh Lane Gallery Collection, oil on canvas. Produced by Diarmuid McIntyre / Grey Heron Media (First Broadcast August 2018)
The witness statement of Gerald Doyle, an Easter Week 1916 Volunteer, in radio form. Presented and produced by Bernard Clarke (First broadcast December 2016)
Cal Folger Day shares the compositional process behind her verbatim opera The Woods and Grandma. Presented by Cal Folger Day Produced by Rachel Ní Chuinn and Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast September 2019)
'Wild' tells the story of Ireland's landscapes and its wildlife across past, present and future, exploring the ever changing relationship between people and nature through time. Written and presented by Anja Murray Original music score by Margie Jean Lewis Produced by Anja Murray & Lenny Antonelli Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Back in February, the most unique orchestra in the world came together and played a concert. Most of them had never met each other before and none of them, including the conductor, had any idea what kind of music they were going to play. Presented and Produced by Ross Hannon Producer for lyric: Eoin O'Kelly (First broadcast October 2020)
Diarmuid McIntyre and Cristín Leach go down to the sunny banks of the Bride river as they immerse themselves in the luminous colours of William McKeown’s 2005 “Hope Painting (Going Through the Looking Glass)” from the Collection of the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Produced by Diarmuid McIntyre / Grey Heron Media (First broadcast 21st Aug 2018)
Writer Sara Baume and radio producer Regan Hutchins hit Cape Clear Island to find rare vagrant birds but find some meaning to life instead. Presented and produced by Regan Hutchins. Producer for RTE lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast October 2020)
Sappho's Daughter an epic poem by Theo Dorgan performed by Olwen Fouéré and Barry McGovern with a musical score by Colm Mac Con Iomaire. Written by Theo Dorgan Performed by Olwen Fouéré and Barry McGovern Producer: Eoin O Kelly
Through a mix of documentary and drama, 'Last Thoughts' examines the life and work of Ireland's greatest classical composer, John Field. Producer Marc Ivan O'Gorman Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Saucy Mistress Boldface is a peek through a Georgian window at life for women from 1746 to 1751 through a series of 221 letters from the Bishop Of Elphin to his only teenage daughter Alicia. We hear about music, fashions, lazy servants, exotic fruits and women’s health. Narrated and produced by Angie Mezzetti Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Claire Cunningham tells the story of how the tiny island of Inishlacken, off the coast of Galway, inspired three Belfast artists 70 years ago and continues to inspire artists today. Presented and produced by Claire Cunningham. A Rockfinch Production. Sound supervision by Tinpot Productions Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
On the Ice Edge is a sound composition by Louise Manifold which was inspired by the artist’s participation in survey work on board the Marine Institute’s Celtic Explorer. It features original text by Louise Manifold performed by Adrian Crowley, sound recordings by John Brennan and Louise Manifold with sound design by foley artist Jean McGrath.
Kevin Barry's Island Time and Louise Manifold's On the Ice Edge. Work from Aerial / Sparks at Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture. Produced by Eoin O Kelly and Elizabeth Laragy
Island Time is a multimedia monologue written and performed by Kevin Barry at Inis Oírr Lighthouse. Sound design is by Foley artist Jean McGrath and the piece was made with support from the Commissioners of the Irish Lights. Produced by Eoin O Kelly and Elizabeth Laragy
Dráma véarsaíochta agus ceoil is ea ‘Lá dá raibh’ mar a bhfuil a dhán féin á aithris ag an bhfile Louis de Paor le ceol nuachumtha ón gcumadóir Meiriceánach Dana Lyn. Scéal/scéalaí: Louis de Paor Ceol: Dana Lyn Dearadh fuaime: David Munro Meascadh fuaime: Alan Kelly A Rockfinch Production Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
One Day is a work of fiction which tells the story of a day in the life of a small village in the west of Ireland. Narrator/author: Louis de Paor Music: Dana Lyn Sound design: David Munro Sound mix: Alan Kelly. A Rockfinch Production Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
An exploration of the rich diversity of flora and fauna and archaeological sites along the River Inny in South Kerry. Presented and produced by JJ O’Shea Producer for Lyric: Eoin O Kelly
Singers Iarla Ó Lionáird and Veronica Dunne discuss the journey of the human voice and ask, why do we sing and what happens when we do? An Athena Media production Producer: Helen Shaw Audio editor: Pearse Ó Caoimh Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First Broadcast December 26th 2017)
Singers Iarla Ó Lionaird and Peggy Seeger discuss the global journey of the human voice and ask, why do we sing and what happens when we do? An Athena Media production Producer: Helen Shaw Audio Editor: Pearse O Caoimh. Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 24th March 2017)
Singers Iarla Ó Lionáird and Glen Hansard discuss the global journey of the human voice and ask, why do we sing and what happens when we do? An Athena Media production Producer: Helen Shaw Audio Editor: Pearse O Caoimh. Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 29th October 2017)
Cristín Leach and Diarmuid McIntyre accept the invitation of Norah McGuinness' 1962 still life painting "Garden Green" to throw open the doors and escape into a world shaped by artistic possibility. Hugh Lane Gallery Collection, oil on canvas. Produced by Diarmuid McIntyre / Grey Heron Media (First Broadcast June 12th 2018)
Singer Iarla Ó Lionáird and composer Linda Buckley discuss the journey of the human voice and ask, why do we sing and what happens when we do? An Athena Media production Producer: Helen Shaw Audio Editor: Pearse O Caoimh. Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 3rd December 2017)
The life and work of Brian O'Nolan and his many alter egos through a playful mixture of interviews and dramatization. Producer: Marc-Ivan O'Gorman Producer for lyric fm: Eoin O Kelly
In Bax, Ireland and 1916, Aidan Thomson and guests explore the English composer Arnold Bax's complex and unusual relationship with Ireland, Irishness and Patrick Pearse. Presented by Aidan Thomson Produced by Eoin O Kelly
Mary Brophy and guests on the natural world and how we describe it. Presenter: Mary Brophy Producer Neal Boyle Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast 18th November 2018)
'Stranieri' tells the story of extraordinary European musicians who were recruited to the RTE Symphony Orchestra when it was founded in 1948. Presented and Produced by Angie Mezzetti Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly
An imaginative journey through recorded sounds with Chris Watson and Luke Clancy. Sound Supervision: Ruth Kennington Producer: Kevin Brew Series Producer, Drama On One: Kevin Reynolds Producer for lyric: Eoin O Kelly (First broadcast October 2020 RTÉ Radio 1 Drama On One)
Ye Vagabonds Brían Mac Gloinn tells the story in word and song of the rescue of 18 Dutch sailors off Arranmore Island 80 years ago this month. Written, presented and performed by Brían Mac Gloinn, Produced by Brían Mac Gloinn and Eoin O Kelly Sound Supervision: Damian Chennells