RTÉ announces the third annual RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards

The show must go on! The RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards will return for a third consecutive year on Thursday 26th November.  

John Creedon and Ruth Smith will once again present the awards ceremony as RTÉ celebrates the significant contribution folk musicians and bands have made to Irish culture. The awards will be broadcast live on RTÉ Radio 1 from 8pm to 10pm. On the night, listeners will be treated to specially recorded performances from many of those nominated. 

Last year was an eclectic mix of folk music from around the country, and this year promises to be the same. Folk fans can expect to hear contributions from folk royalty on the night along with the all important emerging artists. 

The award categories include Folk Singer of the Year, Best Folk Album of the Year, Best Original Folk Track of the Year, Best Traditional Folk of the Year, Best Folk Group of the Year, Folk Instrumentalist of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, a performer will be inducted into the Hall of Fame.  

Previous winners of the Lifetime Achievement Award are Moya Brennan (2019) and Andy Irvine (2018).  

Presenter John Creedon said: “As a concert goer myself, I’m really missing live gigs. I can scarcely imagine what the performers are feeling, so I’m delighted to be part of this platform for the best of Irish talent. Despite the challenges, the creativity goes on and the show goes on!” 

Ann-Marie Power, RTÉ Head of Arts and Culture, added: “After a year of gig cancellations and a really difficult time for the live music industry, we are delighted to highlight Ireland’s vibrant folk music scene in this 2hour radio special. It’s a privilege for us to give a platform to musicians. The 2020 RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the work of performers and artists who, despite all the odds, still created beautiful music in this year.” 

In previous years, the Folk Awards were celebrated in front of a live audience in Vicar Street. This year it isn’t possible with Covid-19 restrictions, but the music and the celebration will be brought to listeners live on RTÉ Radio 1. 

Don’t miss the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards 8pm on RTÉ Radio 1