11/02/2026
The Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago was thrilled to welcome the Irish Traditional Music Archive (ITMA) for a special evening celebrating the rich history and enduring influence of Irish traditional music, song and dance in America.
𝘗𝘶𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘨𝘰 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘱, brought together an outstanding lineup of guest musicians for an engaging, behind-the-scenes exploration of Ireland’s musical heritage and its deep roots across the United States. Through conversation, historical insights and live musical demonstrations, guests got a unique look at the traditions that have travelled across generations and continue to thrive in communities throughout America.
The evening also offered a special introduction to 𝐀𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐀𝐧 𝐈𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐭𝐥𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚, ITMA’s new interactive digital map, featuring archival audio, video and visual materials documenting Irish traditional music, song and dance across all 50 U.S. states. Developed in partnership with Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, the project forms a central part of Ireland’s America250 programme.
We’re delighted to share a glimpse of the evening in the video of this post capturing some of the music, conversation and highlights from this wonderful celebration of Ireland’s living cultural heritage.
A huge thank you to the team at ITMA, all the fabulously talented musicians, and our audience who made the evening so special!
Videography and filming by Donovan Strong-O'Donnell and Maxwell Fitzpatrick
Irish Traditional Music Archive / Taisce Cheol Dúchais Éireann Department of Culture, Communications and Sport Irish America 250 Ward Irish Music Archives
