Altan

Altan is a band from Donegal, Ireland, that plays traditional Irish music.

Frankie Kennedy used to travel from Belfast to Donegal in his summer holidays, learning Irish and playing music. There he met Mairéad Ní Mha

Altan is a band from Donegal, Ireland, that plays traditional Irish music.

Frankie Kennedy used to travel from Belfast to Donegal in his summer holidays, learning Irish and playing music. There he met Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh. They married in 1981. Two years later they recorded their first album together, Ceol Aduaidh (Music of the North). Mairéad grew up in Irish-speaking Gweedore, learning to play fiddle from her father, himself a noted musician. At this time Donegal music was little known outside of the county. Frankie played obscure northern flute tunes. The combination attracted lots of attention, particularly since Mairéad had an outstanding voice as well a rare talent on the fiddle.