Various venues, Miltown Malbay, Co Clare Sat-Sun Jul 10

Thirty-nine years after the untimely death of Clare piper Willie Clancy, the summer school founded in his honour continues to thrive in the hospitable confines of Miltown Malbay.

The mother and father of all traditional music gatherings (and affectionately known as the Willie Wag), this year’s gathering remains true to its founding principles: to nurture traditional music, song and dance through week-long intensive classes. There are lectures as well, and endless céilídhe and informal sessions. For many, though, the highlight will be the nightly instrument-specific concerts in Miltown’s community hall, where aspirant virtuosos can learn at the knees, elbows and ears of their heroes and heroines.

Martin Hayes, Jackie Daly, Caoimhin O’Raghallaigh, Joe Burke, Máire O’Keeffe and many others will air and share tunes on stages and in snugs. For any self-respecting traditional music, song and dance fan, this is a gathering worthy of the gorging.