Miltown Malbay musician Liam O’Brien has received the Ceoltóir Óg award that was announced at the launch of the Gradam Ceoil TG4 awards, the Traditional Music Awards, in December.
Liam was presented with his Young Musician Award/Gradam Ceoltóir Óg 2017 at Gradam Ceoil TG4, the ‘Oscars of Irish Music’, at a concert and awards ceremony broadcast live on TG4 from Cork Opera House last night.
Liam began his musical education at the age of 4 under tutelage of his mother, Bríd O’Donoghue, and the legendary Noel Hill. However it is Liam’s own style and sound that makes him stand out as a remarkable young musician with a distinct and memorable musical accent.
Liam is a welcome guest at any traditional music session. A recent graduate of UL, Liam has developed a career as a teacher and performer, touring widely with his musical partner Hajime Takahashi to destinations as diverse as Tokyo, Tanzania, Romania, France, Switzerland, Austria and Scotland as well as festivals and workshops in Ireland.
Gradam Ceoil TG4 is the premier annual traditional music awards scheme. An independent panel of adjudicators selects recipients each year. It is not a competition.
Gradam Ceoil recipients are presented with a specially-commissioned piece by leading sculptor John Coll as well as a small stipend.