Martin Hayes in session

Martin Hayes is a ‘master of tradition’ but his name is also synonymous with innovation and improvisation. From his outstanding debut solo album in 1992 right up to his most recent album, “Peggy’s Dream”, with the Common Ground Ensemble in 2023, he has blazed a trail within Irish traditional music. His explorations and collaborations, particularly with his groundbreaking quintet The Gloaming, have seen him merge Irish traditional fiddle playing with contemporary classical and jazz. But that is only half the story – anyone who has ever been to one of his live concerts knows that, whether it is muscle memory or pure instinct, his unique performance style feels like a transcendent and unstoppable force of nature. Ahead of his performance at Other Voices in Derry, another chance to hear Martin when joined Stephen for a few tunes and a chat back in August 2025.