In summer 2024, Ireland joined the global Ethno network with the successful launch of its first-ever Ethno Ireland. Rooted in peer-to-peer musical exchange and cultural immersion, the event welcomed young musicians for an intense week of learning, collaboration, and performance.

We spoke with Els Lemahieu, organiser of Ethno Ireland, to discuss the inspiration behind the initiative, the highlights of the first edition, and what this new chapter means for young musicians and the Irish musical community.

How did it feel to host the very first edition of Ethno in Ireland? What was the overall vibe during the event, and what kind of feedback did you receive from the participating musicians?

It was both exciting and challenging. JMI and Ethno are still relatively unknown in Ireland, which meant partner organisations, funders, and young musicians showed limited interest at first. Ireland already has a very strong and vibrant traditional music scene, offering young musicians many opportunities to play, jam, and travel. With full schedules—especially in summer—it was difficult to attract them to something new like Ethno.

Despite this, our first edition turned out to be a wonderful experience for everyone involved. Its success will definitely help build interest and engage more local musicians and communities in the future.

What were some of the key activities, workshops, or sessions during the week?

The core remained true to Ethno’s origins in Sweden: peer-to-peer tune teaching by ear, living and creating music together, forming strong bonds, and preparing for a final concert that leaves the audience amazed.

Being in Ireland, we added a local touch: a visit to a traditional pub session in Dublin and a special “Irish evening” at the hostel. We invited local musicians from the village, served a typical Irish meal (Shepherd’s pie), and hosted a workshop on Irish rhythm and language with Ronan O’Snodaigh, the frontman of the band Kíla.

Looking back, what was your favourite moment of Ethno Ireland?

Watching the participants close their try-out concert on the Dún Laoghaire pier was unforgettable. They stood in a circle, arms linked, humming the morning tune as the sun set behind them and boats drifted past. The sense of togetherness in that moment was palpable. It made every hour of work that went into organising Ethno Ireland worthwhile.