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Gradam Ceoil TG4 2025 Recipients announced at Iveagh House as Expo 2025 Osaka Collaboration is Unveiled

26.03.25

 
The recipients of Gradam Ceoil TG4 2025 have been officially unveiled at a special event held at Iveagh House, marking another milestone in the celebration of Ireland’s rich traditional music heritage.
 
Now in its 28th year, Gradam Ceoil TG4 continues to honour the absolute best in performance and cultural impact across seven categories. The announcement is a key moment in the traditional music calendar, not only recognising the exceptional achievements of the awardees but also celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of the tradition. These honourees exemplify the dedication and innovation that ensure traditional Irish music flourishes for future generations.
 
The selection process is carried out by an independent panel of previous awardees and leading figures in the traditional music community. Gradam Ceoil TG4 not only acknowledges artistic excellence but also amplifies the success of the recipients by bringing their music, song, and dance to global audiences through TG4’s extensive broadcasting platforms.
 
This year, the awards’ global reach is further amplified by collaboration with Ireland at Expo 2025. Gradam Ceoil TG4 and its 2025 honourees will feature in Ireland’s programming at the upcoming World Expo in Osaka, Japan.
 
The Gradam Ceoil TG4 2025 recipients are:

• Gradam Ceoil TG4 2025 / Musician – Siobhán Peoples
• Amhránaí TG4 2025 / Singer – Cathy Jordan
• Gradam Saoil TG4 2025 / Lifetime Achievement – Matt Cranitch
• Grúpa Ceoil TG4 2025 / Music Group – Flook
• Ceoltóir Óg TG4 2025 / Young Musician – Colm Broderick
• Cumadóir TG4 2025 / Composer – Johnny Óg Connolly
• Gradam Comaoine TG4 2025 / Outstanding Contribution – Áine Hensey

 
The Gradam Ceoil TG4 2025 concert and award ceremony will take place at the University Concert Hall, Limerick, on Sunday, 4 May. This highly anticipated event will be broadcast live on TG4 and worldwide via the TG4 Player, offering audiences the chance to experience an unforgettable night of music, celebration, and entertainment. The honourees will be joined by an array of special musical guests and presenters for this prestigious occasion. Link to Gradam Ceoil 2025 tickets here.
 
Speaking today on the announcement of the recipients, the Tánaiste said: “Ireland’s presence at Expo 2025 Osaka provides us with an exciting opportunity to showcase the best of Ireland to an international audience, and this includes celebrating our vibrant musical heritage. I congratulate the recipients of Gradam Ceoil 2025 who encapsulate the richness and depth of Irish traditional music, and I look forward to seeing their talents taking centre stage as part of our cultural programme at Expo 2025.”
 
Speaking at the event, Proinsias Ní Ghráinne, Commissioner Editor of Gradam Ceoil TG4 stated that “We are proud to be able to honour such excellence through Gradam and celebrate with artists who are shaping the future of our music, song and dance. Year on year, TG4 strives to expand the reach of our music through worldwide broadcasts. This year’s collaboration with Expo ensures a further expansion of this reach in Asia and throughout the world. Comhghairdeas ó chroí agus go mairfidh sibh bhur ngradaim.”
 

The Gradam Ceoil TG4 awards have long been regarded as the premier accolades in traditional music, and this year’s recipients reflect the depth of talent and commitment within the Irish music community. Their influence ensures that the tradition continues to evolve and thrive in a way that honours its past while looking towards the future.
 
Gradam Ceoil TG4’s involvement in Ireland’s programming for Expo 2025 Osaka creates a special opportunity for the promotion of traditional Irish music to Japanese and international audiences. World Expos play an important role in bringing the world together at regular intervals. The event will run from April to October 2025 and is expected to attract 28 million visitors.
 
Ireland’s participation at Expo follows a whole-of-government approach, with collaboration across Government Departments, state agencies, bodies and national cultural institutions, coordinated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
 
More information on Ireland’s presence at Expo 2025 including cultural programming is available on www.ireland.ie/expo