'Amala '

The duo "Amala" is Reidun Schlesinger (harps) and Paul de Grae (guitars). They play music from several centuries, in original arrangements. The core of the repertoire is Irish: traditional Irish tunes, and pieces from the Irish harp repertoire. They also play music from various Continental European countries, some jazz, and their own jazz-tinged compositions – "glorious barrier-breaking music", as The Irish Times said of their debut CD, "resonance".

Both have long experience of backing other people, but for each of them it's an exciting challenge to take a leading role, which they alternate, so that the sound constantly varies. "We work hard on creating arrangements that allow our respective instruments both to stand out and to blend. But improvisation is also a big part of what we enjoy doing, so we aim for a balance between 'tight' and 'loose' – keeping it fresh for ourselves and the listeners!"

Check out their website: http://amala.ie/ or find them on Facebook

Sorcha de Róiste & Eoin ‘Stan’ O’Sullivan

An award-winning sean nós singer, Sorcha has appeared as a guest on several recordings, and is currently working towards a solo album. Sorcha also works in more experimental forms of music and composition. Current projects include music for film and for an experimental archaeology project. More information: www.sorchaderoiste.com.

Eoin O’Sullivan has worked as a musician since the age of sixteen and, while his own musical life has been diverse and colourful, he is most passionate about the music and culture of the area where he grew up. In 2013 he started a small school teaching local music to people of all ages. That year he also took on the role of director of Scully's Fest and has helped grow the festival to be one of the highlights of the Sliabh Luachra musical calendar. More information: www.eoinosullivan.net