Pléaráca an Riadaigh - Seán Ó Riada

This is a 3 CD Set of three albums which each marked a milestone in the development of Irish traditional music. With Ceoltóirí Chualann, Darach Ó Cathá¡in and Seán Ó Sé, Seán Ó Riada embarked on a journey of discovery. Each of the three albums was conceived as a unique concept:

Disk 1 Reacaireacht an Riadaigh: Music, song and recitations form the basis of this album. Ó Riada presented a radio programme using the format of a fireside entertainment. The album features the singing of Connemara sean-nós singer Darach Ó Cathá¡in, Ceoltóirí Chualann and short pieces spoken by Seán Ó Riada.

There is a vibrancy and freshness to this album, Ó Riada's inaugural release with Ceoltóirí Chualann. The playing of Ronnie Mc Shane on percussion and of Sonny Brogan on accordion is noteworthy.

Disk 2 Ceol na nUasal: This album features music of the aristocracy, and that of Turlough O Carolan, in particular. Seán Ó Sé is the singer. As this beautiful music had been neglected for many years, the sensitive arrangements by Seán Ó Riada captured the public imagination and led to a revival of interest in this aspect of traditional music.

Disk 3 Ding Dong: The singing of Seán Ó Sé is to the fore on this album and Ó Riada's arrangements are masterful. This is music for the concert hall with the emphasis on entertainment. This is seen to great effect in the track Raithineach a Bhean Bheag, where the musicians play with great exuberance.