Experience Belfast's Musical Heart: Free Ulster Hall Concert Tickets!

Mark your calendars, North Belfast! A truly special evening of music, song, and stories is heading to the iconic Ulster Hall on Saturday, August 1st.

The 'Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City' concert is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Belfast's vibrant and diverse shared musical heritage. This free event also acts as a warm welcome to the city as it prepares to host Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which officially kicks off the very next day.

Curated by the acclaimed composer Neil Martin and presented by popular broadcaster Lynette Fay, the show promises a night of top-tier entertainment.

Prepare to be wowed by an incredible lineup of talent! Special guest Liam Ó Maonlaí, lead vocalist from the Hothouse Flowers, will grace the stage. Adding a touch of dramatic flair, Oscar-nominated actors Stephen Rea and Ciarán Hinds will perform a selection of readings throughout the evening.

Musical treats include a unique orchestra of 100 fiddles gathered from across Ulster, joined by special guests The Southside Fiddlers from Glasgow. You'll also hear The Chieftains' legendary Matt Molloy performing alongside Paddy Glackin of the iconic Bothy Band, accompanied by an orchestra. The talent continues with contributions from singer Roisin Chambers and harpist Séana Davey. Belfast's own Noel Eccles, a percussionist who has worked with giants like Van Morrison and Riverdance, will also play a central role.

Bringing the power of pipes and brass, the 13-time world champion Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band will perform. There's also a unique collaboration planned between Campbell College Pipe Band, the 1st Old Boys' Brass Band, and an orchestra. Together, they will deliver a combined ensemble rendition of 'The Minstrel Boy', featuring Tristan Russcher on the Ulster Hall’s famous Mulholland Grand Organ.

Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, the Lord Mayor of Belfast, shared her excitement, highlighting that this event is a chance to showcase how our island's many cultures and traditions blend beautifully into our traditional arts, forming a truly unique, shared identity. She hopes 'Croí na Cathrach' will be a brilliant launchpad for a significant week for Belfast, elevating our local talents and celebrating our communities, who truly are the 'Heart of the City'.

Don't miss out on this incredible night! A limited number of free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis (maximum two per person) from ulsterhall.co.uk. Be quick – they're sure to go fast!