Gradam Ceoil TG4

Bio

Roscommon-born Cathy Jordan has been a professional singer with the traditional group Dervish for nearly 30 years. A self-taught guitarist, she also plays the bouzouki, bodhrán, and bones with remarkable skill.

As the lead vocalist of Dervish, Cathy has guided the band through thousands of concerts in hundreds of cities across nearly 40 countries. With 14 Dervish albums, plus solo and collaborative recordings, she has played a crucial role in shaping the band’s success. Notable performances include The Great Wall of China and Rock in Rio, the world’s biggest rock festival, before 250,000 people.

Cathy is also an accomplished songwriter, collaborating with Brendan Graham, composer of You Raise Me Up, one of the 20th century’s most successful songs. In addition to Dervish, she is a member of Plúirín Na mBan and The Unwanted, the latter exploring Irish-American musical connections.

Her latest solo album, The Crankie Island Song Project, is a major collaborative work featuring over 70 musicians and artists, highlighting her dedication to traditional music.

Beyond performing, Cathy has promoted Irish culture through broadcasting. In 2014, she became a presenter on Fleadh TV with TG4. Widely recognized as an ambassador for Irish music, she has helped preserve many traditional songs.

Her contributions have earned her prestigious awards, including the BBC Lifetime Achievement Award (2019), Sligo Cultural Ambassador (2018), the Annie McNulty Award (2014), and the Freedom of the City of Sligo (2010).