Women in the tradition

At it’s launch in April 2025, out of the 85 or so musicians and singers included in this project, 20 are women, nearly 25%. That might not seem like a large number, but considering the time period, it’s significant.

Traditionally, fewer women played music publicly, especially in earlier decades. Many were skilled singers or players within their own homes or communities but didn’t always have the same opportunities to perform or travel as men. Still, their presence was vital. They passed on songs, hosted gatherings, and held the music within families.

“Among Irish musicians born. between 1920 and 1950, women and men typically had very different trajectories. In rural areas, women’s musical participation was mainly at house parties.”
(Dr. Helen O’Shea, Article ‘Good man, mary!’ 2008)

We remember and highlight the women who played, sang, taught, and carried the tradition in quieter—but no less meaningful—ways. Their contribution deserves to be remembered alongside the better-known names, and this is just the beginning of giving their stories more space.

Click on the button below to search through the archive and find out their individual stories.