Alfi
Fiachra and Alannah are members of the folk trio Alfi, alongside Ryan McAuley. Alfi's music is a unique blend of traditional Irish and Appalachian folk music, featuring an unusual lineup of harp, five-string banjo, and uilleann pipes. The trio has received acclaim for their innovative approach to traditional music and their captivating performances.
Fiachra Meek
Fiachra Meek is a versatile and accomplished musician from Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland. He is best known for his expertise in playing the uilleann pipes, but he is also proficient with the whistles, guitar and singing. His musical journey is deeply rooted in traditional Irish music, yet he continually explores and integrates modern influences. Fiachra's passion for music began at a young age. Growing up in a musically rich environment, he was exposed to traditional Irish tunes and instruments early on. His dedication to mastering the uilleann pipes set him apart, and he quickly became a prominent figure in the Irish music scene.
Fiachra has been involved in numerous prestigious music tours and festivals, such as "The Great Irish Hooley" and "The Irish Folk Festival". He has collaborated with various acts, including Junior Brother and The Armagh Rhymers, showcasing his versatility and ability to blend different musical styles.
In 2025, Fiachra joined The Pogues as a piper for their 40th anniversary tour, marking a significant milestone in his career. This opportunity allows him to perform alongside original members and other guest musicians, further solidifying his reputation in the traditional Irish music community.
In addition to his performance career, Fiachra is dedicated to teaching and sharing his knowledge of traditional Irish music. He offers masterclasses and workshops, focusing on building repertoire and developing technique on the uilleann pipes. He also hosts a monthly Beginner Session at Mulligans. Check out our website for futher details.
Fiachra Meek's dedication to his craft and his ability to blend traditional and modern influences make him a standout figure in the world of Irish music. His contributions as a performer, teacher, and collaborator continue to inspire and influence musicians and audiences alike.
Alannah Thornburgh
Alannah Thornburgh is an award-winning instrumentalist and composer from the wild west of Ireland with a focus on traditional Irish harp. Alannah’s music explores her family heritage, reimagining melodies from the Irish harping and American folk & jazz traditions. This cross-genre interaction and juxtaposition of old melodies with contemporary harmonies and technique is interwoven throughout her music, described as being ‘unforced, fluid and utterly at home in her own sound’ (The Irish Times). Alannah will release her debut solo album ‘Shapeshifter’ on February 12th 2025 - a collection of compositions inspired by fairy folklore & mythology in rural Ireland, specifically her native Co. Mayo.
Alannah was nominated for two awards at both the 2022 and 2021 RTÉ Folk Awards - Best Emerging Artist and Best Folk Instrumentalist. She featured on an RTÉ 1 Documentary ‘A Note for Nature’ in collaboration with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, performing her interpretation of a Conor Walsh composition ‘One Swallow’. Her compositions have featured on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta podcast series ‘Scéalta’. Alannah is also a recipient of the Arts Council’s Next Generation Award 21/22.
Alannah is a founding member of Alfi, a trio who combine traditional Irish and Appalachian music and song, winners of the 2020 US Embassy Creative Minds Award. Alfi released their debut album ‘Say Old Man’ in July 2023 to great critical acclaim - ‘the album captures the organic, full-bodied spirit of their live shows, as well as the distinctive personalities of the players – and marks Alfi as a vital force in Ireland’s ever-diversifying folk scene’ (Hot Press). Alannah has performed, recorded & collaborated with many artists in the folk & traditional music scene including Anna Mieke, Brían Mac Gloinn (Ye Vagabonds), Lemoncello, Loah, Niamh Bury, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Brigid Mae Power, Jiggy, David Keenan, Tristan Scroggins, Paddy McKeown, Conor Caldwell, Gareth Quinn Redmond and Varo.