Unmissable Music 2011 - Discover Northern Ireland

Your guide to 2011Unmissable Musicdiscovernorthernireland.com/musicIncludingMTV Europe Music AwardsBelfast - November 2011

Your guide to 2011Unmissable music.Something as integral to Northern Irelandas good craic and slightly drizzly summers.This little part of the world is becoming moreand more renowned for its brilliant musicaltalent and heritage. We're brimming withdiverse, artful and electrifying music events –gigs, jam sessions, one-off shows and elaboratefestivals. Hundreds of tuneful happenings in onepicturesque, cosmopolitan place.So, whatever you love to listen to, you'll find it here.This little booklet highlights some of the manybrilliant events from Northern Ireland's 2011calendar. From big band extravaganzas to thestar-studded MTV European Music Awards –plus local eateries, pubs and B&Bs – there's goodvibrations and great insider hotspots for everymusic-lover.Enjoy the line-up.JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

28 April – 01 May 2011City of Derry Jazzand Big Band FestivalDo you love jazz, blues and big bandstyleswing? Then you’ll adore the10th City of Derry Jazz and Big BandFestival – Northern Ireland’s glitteringode to a stunning musical era. Over 300musicians will descend on the city toplay five days of gigs in over 75 venues– featuring everything from classicaljazz to rockabilly, jump jive to swing andevery type of big band extravaganzain-between.Last year saw Bill Wyman of theRolling Stones playing with his newband, The Rhythm Kings – as well asjazz supremo Mirenda Rosenberg, bluesCat Scratch Trio and our very own DerryJazz Quartet.It doesn’t get much better...While you’re here...City Hotel Derry4* sleepoverdestination in the city.Queens Quay,Londonderry+44 (0) 28 7136 5800Sandinos Cafe BarDerry’s premier livemusic venue with apacked live musicprogramme.Water Street,Londonderry+44 (0) 28 7130 9297The Gweedore BarAnother super-coollive music hang-out –featuring some greatcontemporary bands.Waterloo Street,Londonderry+44 (0) 28 7137 2138The Nerve CentreA place for musicevents, programmes,performancesand projects.7-8 Magazine Street,Londonderry+44 (0) 28 7126 0562Want to know more?discovernorthernireland.com/musicJANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

29 April – 09 May 2011Cathedral QuarterArts FestivalIf you love all kinds of musical andartistic entertainment, the CathedralQuarter Arts Festival will be right upyour street. This boutique festivalis cutting-edge, quirky, high-browand low-brow, sugary and spicy.Celebrating the supreme offerings ofmusic, books, theatre, comedy, danceand visual arts, the CQAF is a fringefestival in the heart of Belfast – sizzlingwith animation and gloriously good craic.Last year’s featured almost 40 musicacts, comedy from Ardal O’Hanlon andReginald D Hunter, a hush-hush playperformed to an intimate audienceof 14 and productions by local writersacross the city.Make space in your diary for thistreasured happening – it’s a highlightof Belfast’s artsy calendar.While you’re here...Belfast Music TourTake a bus trip throughthis rock ‘n’ roll city.The perfect introductionMcHugh’sDating back to 1711,this gem is the oldestsurviving building inTen Square HotelStunning stay-overvenue beside Belfast’sbeloved City Hall.to Belfast’s vibrant Belfast. Great food, drink10 Donegall Squaremusic scene.and craic as standard.South, BelfastTickets £8 from Belfast 29-31 Queens Square,Welcome CentreBelfast+44 (0) 28 9024 1001+44 (0) 28 9024 6609 +44 (0) 28 9050 9999Bert’s BarArt-deco glamour,live jazz and fabulouscocktails.16 Skipper Street,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9026 2713Want to know more?discovernorthernireland.com/musicPhoto by Edel GribbenJANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

26-30 May 2011International GuinnessBlues on the Bay FestivalWondering what musical thing-to-doon this May Bank Holiday Weekend?Why not hit the seaside town ofWarrenpoint for the Blues on the BayFestival?Taking place on the shores ofCarlingford Lough, in the foothills of theMournes, this melodic carnival bringstogether internationally renowned andlocally acclaimed jazz and blues artists.With over 90 performances, superlocal nosh, quaint pubs and the greatoutdoors. There's no better wayto spend an early summer day.Best of all. Blues on the Bay is allabout the music – it's a not-for-profit,voluntary project so its a fantasticvalue-for-money festival.While you’re here...Whistledown HotelA 3* gem in Warrenpoint.6 Seaview, Warrenpoint+44 (0) 28 4175 4174Want to know more?Jack RyansA great pub for live musicand good times.18, The Square,Warrenpoint+44 (0) 28 4175 2001discovernorthernireland.com/musicRestaurant 23Great local food andsurrounds in the heart ofWarrenpoint.CopperA beautiful restaurantwith delicious offeringsin Newry.13 Seaview, Warrenpoint 9 Monaghan Street,+44 (0) 28 4175 3222Newry+44 (0) 28 3026 7772Photo by Sinead MurphyJANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

14 - 17 July 2011Celtic FusionNestled between the spectacularMourne Mountains and Slieve Croobis the market town of Castlewellan –and in July, it is the place to be forthe finest traditional and Celticroots music.Cross your fingers for sunshine, andhead to concerts in the main square.Pull up a pew in a local pub and revel infree trad sessions. This atmosphericlittle town becomes a hub for all-thingsmusical over four days.Indulge in some of the local banterand enjoy headline acts – last yeartop billing was shared by SharonShannon, Eddi Reader andMick Hanley with Artie McGlynn.It’s where Celtic arts and music fuseto make one unforgettable event.While you’re here...Mullan’s BarLive music sessionsin the historic town ofDownpatrick.48 Church Street,Downpatrick+44 (0) 28 4461 2227Want to know more?Denvir’s HotelA charming countryhousehotel, teemingwith history andcharacter.14-16 English Street,Downpatrick+44 (0) 28 4461 2012discovernorthernireland.com/musicThe Maghera InnEnjoy proper homecookingin this gorgeousfamily-owned pub.86A Ballyloughlin Road,Castlewellan+44 (0) 28 4372 2236O’Hares Lounge BarPay this cool loungea visit if you love jazz,blues, rock, club andRnB music.121 Central Promenade,Newcastle+44 (0) 28 4372 2487JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

23 July 2011GlasgowburyGlasgowbury has been a favourite on theNI festival scene since its arrival in 2000.This brilliant music extravaganza bringstogether local bands, showcases andgroups to raise awareness of Ireland’sfantastic new music scene.The event is small enough to have a greatatmosphere and lots of heart, but largeenough to guarantee a brilliant festivalexperience. A 'Small but Massive' occasionat Eagle's Rock Valley, Draperstown – set inthe green loveliness of the Sperrins.Over the years, it has won countlessaccolades, picking up four Irish FestivalAwards in 2009, including: Best Smallfestival, Best Line-Up, Best FamilyFestival and Best Service. In 2010 it wonBest Family Festival and the Best Serviceawards for the third year in a row.Kicking off on Saturday 23 July, the 11thGlasgowbury promises to be the best yet– featuring everything from rock to indieto funk to dance and metal.While you’re here...Dorman'sA lively pub with greatentertainment, greatfood and great tunes.15-17 Queen StreetMagherafelt+44 (0) 28 7963 1194Want to know more?ApparoNot a tent-lover?Try this hotel forboutique chic roomsand amazing food.18 St. Patrick's Street,Draperstown+44 (0) 28 7962 8100discovernorthernireland.com/musicLaurel VillaA guest house withoodles of ambienceand charming touches.60 Church Street,Magherafelt+44 (0) 28 79301459GardinersTuck into some modernand delicious Irish cuisinebetween sessions.7 Garden Street,Magherafelt+44 (0) 28 7930 0333JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

August 2011 *Féile an PhobailLooking for something sensational thissummer? Then say hello to one of themost celebrated festivals in Europeand the largest community festivalin Ireland.August Féile celebrates all thingswondrous – from music concerts andcomedy, to literary events and oldschool drive in movies.Last year, local acts were joined byinternational sensations including ABC,the Russian Philharmonic Orchestra andMichelle Shocked (so all super-coolbases are covered).The ten day event is speckled withtalks, tours, community and children'sevents, showing that Féile an Phobailhas something spectacular to offereveryone.While you’re here...Belfast MusiciPhone AppScope out up-to-theminutelistings, newsand self-guided, musicwalking tour of the city.Best of all, downloadit for free from theApp Store.Want to know more?Malone Lodge Hoteland ApartmentsA boutique Victorianstyletownhouse hotelfor stylish stopovers.60 Eglantine Avenue,Malone Road,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9038 8060The John Hewitt BarBeer and beats –from blues to jazz, soulto open mic. Lovely.51 Donegall Street,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9023 3768* Dates to be confirmed. In advance of travel, please checkdiscovernorthernireland.com/music for further information.Fáilte RestaurantThis gem opened inApril 2010 in the heart ofWest Belfast’s GaeltachtQuarter. The food is greatand there’s a BYO policy(and no corkage charge).A festival winner.145-147 Falls Road,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9024 3846JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

August 2011 *BelsonicBelsonic returns in August, oscillatinggreat vibes and great rock and popthrough Belfast's Custom HouseSquare. Around 40,000 music-loversdescend on the Cathedral Quarterfor this extravaganza of superstarsand super tunes.Last summer Florence & The Machine,David Guetta, Biffy Clyro and PaoloNutini took to the stage.And this year promises more big names– with BRIT and Mercury Music Prizewinning rapper Dizzee Rascal andhip-hop-meets-soul sensationPlan B confirmed.This treasured Belfast festival hits townaround the last two weeks of August– and tickets are always in high demand.So, if this sounds like your kind of streetparty, don't rest on your musical laurels.While you’re here...BoojumFresh mexican nosh,margaritas and alaid-back atmosphere.Perfect pre-performancestop.Londonderry House,Chichester St. Belfast+44 (0) 28 9023 0600Want to know more?The Stiff KittenThis music venuemixes the best of beats,entertainment andinternational guests.Bankmore Square,Dublin Road, Belfast+44 (0) 28 9023 8700Maryville HouseTearooms& Boutique B&BA beautiful, quirky andcentral B&B in a grandVictorian house.2 Maryville Park, Belfast+44 (0) 28 9068 1510* Dates to be confirmed. In advance of travel, please checkdiscovernorthernireland.com/music for further information.The Black BoxA multitalented venuefor live music, theatre,comedy, cabaret, filmand art.18-22 Hill Street, Belfast+44 (0) 28 9024 4400JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

September 2011 *Appalachian andBluegrass FestivalHistory and music buffs will love Omagh’sAppalachian and Bluegrass Festival.Held at the splendid Ulster AmericanFolk Park, this event proves that there isno better venue for a truly memorablefestival than an outdoor museum. Thisliving storyboard lets you experiencethe story of Irish emigration – from thethatched cottages of Ulster to the logcabins of the American frontier. But inSeptember, it bustles with musiciansand dancers from all over the world,as they create a musical ode toAppalachian and Bluegrass.Don’t miss the ‘Bluegrass in the Park’afternoon sessions or the magicalevening concerts, featuring musicalgreats like Dale Ann Bradley and TheGibson Brothers.While you’re here...Crows NestBlakes of the HollowBistro, bar and club all One of Ireland’s mostrolled into one. Don’t miss famous pubs – and forthe Saturday afternoon good reason. Don’t leavetraditional Irish music before you’ve sipped asessions.creamy Irish coffee.12 High Street,Enniskillen+44 (0) 28 6632 5252Want to know more?6 Church Street,Enniskillen+44 (0) 28 6632 2143Arandale House B&BGorgeous gem at thefoothills of the SperrinMountains.66 Drumnakilly Road,Omagh+44 (0) 28 8224 3243* Dates to be confirmed. In advance of travel, please checkdiscovernorthernireland.com/music for further information.Dún Uladh CulturalHeritage CentreA celebration of nativeIrish music, song, danceand language. There’salso traditional musicclasses.Drumnakilly RoadOmagh+44 (0) 28 8224 2777Image caption & creditJANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

07 - 11 September 2011Open House FestivalIf you love music, but not the muddyfields, mishmash of tents and showeryweather that comes with mostfestivals, this is your lucky day.The Open House Festival is ahead of thegame, hosting great gigs in the midstof Belfast’s cosmopolitan arts quarter.From events held in the atmosphericstar-lit festival marquee, to sessionsin neighbouring hotels, eateries andcosy pubs and clubs, there’s somethingfor everyone.Enjoy the very best of new folk,traditional and Americana musicfrom local and international acts.Last year saw Mercury nominatedartists Mumford and Sons and Villagers,American alt-rockers Wilco andan EP launch from local talent TheLowly Knights.And, for all you foodies, the festivalalso plays host to Chillifest –a celebration of all things spicy,with chilli eating competitions,music and speciality food.Hot music and hot nosh. Glorious!While you’re here...Fibber MageeThis gastro pub will hitthe spot if you love greatfood, great music andgreat vibes.38-42 Great VictoriaStreet, Belfast+44 (0) 28 9024 7447Want to know more?Duke of YorkA proper bar on a propercobbled Belfast street.Splendid atmosphereguaranteed.7-11 Commercial Court,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9024 1062discovernorthernireland.com/musicRamada EncoreIf you’re looking fora central place tosleepover, choose thisgreat hotel in Belfast’sCathedral quarter.20 Talbot Street,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9026 1800Cafe VaudevilleLiquor and luxury are onthe menu at this opulentcity-centre bar.25-39 Arthur Street,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9043 9160JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

14 - 29 October 2011Ulster BankBelfast Festival at Queen'sIf the third time’s a charm, the 49thtime must be absolutely legendary.Introducing Belfast Festival at Queen's,Ireland’s largest arts festival.This two week celebration showcases thegreatest of international and local talent– from classical and contemporary music,to theatre, dance, comedy, lectures,visual arts and film.Events take place all over the city,including the beautiful Grand Opera House,the Belfast Barge, Botanic Gardens andthe stunning Clonard Monastery.Past appearances have includedNorthern Ireland's own Seamus Heaneyand Colin Bateman, along withinternational superstars Dizzy Gillespie,Michael Palin and Jimi Hendrix.Potter about the city. Eat, drink and bemerry – and revel in this cultural showcase.It doesn’t come much better.While you’re here...Belfastmusic.orgSearch through hundredsof Belfast’s music eventsto find the gig of yourdreams.Want to know more?Europa HotelIt’s a Belfast classic.When in Rome...Great Victoria Street,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9027 1066discovernorthernireland.com/musicThe Kitchen BarA new location (in thesumptuous VictoriaSquare) but old blues,jazz and Irish musicfavourites.1 Victoria Square, Belfast+44 (0) 28 9024 5268Molly’s YardThese convertedVictorian stables andleafy courtyard make fora unique (and delightful)city eatery.1 College Green Mews,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9032 2600JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

November 2011 *Belfast Music WeekBelfast Music Week burst onto the scenefor the first time in 2010. This Belfast CityCouncil initiative is a celebration of thediverse musical talent Northern Irelandhas to offer.Last year, over a hundred gigs andshowcases took place all over the city –featuring new bands, songwriters, DJs,industry workshops, album launches,musical seminars and internationalacts. Highlights included the fantasticUndertones being inducted into the NIHall of Fame, Belfast Calling at Spring andAirbrake and local dance impresarios SkiBunny launching their first album witha gig on Belfast Barge.Pay a visit and get a real flavour ofNorthern Ireland's rich music past andvibrant music present. 2011 takes theevent to a whole new level with an evenbetter eclectic musical mix, and aninternationally-coveted final showcase –the amazing MTV Europe Music Awards!The whole city will be buzzing underthe spotlight with music, celebs andcelebrations.A truly unmissable week for anyonewho loves music.While you’re here...LimelightWith lots of gigs andatmosphere, indie &rock music fans willlove this venue.17 Ormeau Avenue,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9032 7007Empire Music HallFATE Awards Best LiveMusic Venue 2010.A music-lover's paradise.42 Botanic Avenue,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9024 9276Ulster HallBelfast's beautiful &beloved music andentertainment venue.1-7 Bedford Street, Belfast+44 (0) 28 9033 4455Oh Yeah Music CentreA very cool musiccentre in the heart ofBelfast's hip happeningCathedral Quarter.15-21 Gordon Street,Belfast+44 (0) 28 9031 0845Want to know more?* Dates to be confirmed. In advance of travel, please checkdiscovernorthernireland.com/music for further information.JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

November 2011 *MTV Europe MusicAwards Belfast 2011Do you remember the EMA's 2010?Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Katy Perry andKanye West appeared on stage in typicalsuperstar fashion. There was the RedCarpet Show, a rock medley from Bon Joviand a stunning host from Wisteria Lane –the beautiful Eva Longoria.Last year's electrifying, star-studdedbash was held in the Spanish capitalof Madrid. This year the event movesto somewhat brisker climes asits happening in our own vibrant,cosmopolitan city – Belfast!Checking into the Odyssey Arena onNovember 6 – topping off Belfast MusicWeek – the EMA's 2011 is one of thebiggest and most illustrious eventsever to swing by our little isle.The international spotlight will be ablazeover Belfast as the great, the good andthe glitterati assemble for the grandaward soiree – broadcast live to millionsof homes in up to 160 countries acrossthe world.Due to its rich musical heritage, edginessand vibrancy, world famous musicianslove visiting Belfast. With a youngpopulation, great nightlife and feastof home-grown music talent, there's nobetter venue for the EMAs. Belfast will seeamazing performances and appearanceson the evening – as well as a host ofsmaller concerts, unique sessions andone-off gigs in the run up to the event.Be very excited and stay plugged intodiscovernorthernireland.com/musicfor news.What they're saying...“Belfast's vibrant nightlife andcompelling music scene, knownfor fostering emerging artists andturning out international charttoppers, provides the perfectbackdrop for one of the world'sbiggest nights in music.”Antonio Campo Dall'OrtoExecutive Vice Presidentof Music Brands for ViacomInternational Media Networks* Date to be confirmed.“Playing host city for the MTVEMAs is a huge coup, not onlyfor Belfast, but for the whole ofNorthern Ireland. We are thrilledthat Belfast will join the elite club ofother leading European cities whichhave hosted these prestigious musicawards. I hope those who come toNorthern Ireland for this spectacularevent are inspired to explore moreof what we have to offer.”Arlene FosterNorthern Ireland Tourism Minister“Artists tell us they love playinghere, they love staying here.The audiences are brilliant andthe hotels are fantastic.There's something very different,unique and special about Belfast.And the bid was one of the bestI've ever seen...”Richard GodfreyExecutive Producer of the showJANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

Your guide to 2011Unmissable musicAt-a-glanceAprilMayJune JulyAugustSeptemberOctober November31 March – 31 MayTitanic 100 FestivalBelfast31 March – 14 AprilBelfast Film FestivalBelfast28 April – 01 MayCity of DerryJazz & BigBand FestivalDerry28 April – 2 MayFestival of FoolsBelfast29 April – 1 MayLark in the ParkMoira29 April – 09 MayCathedral QuarterArts FestivalBelfast26-30 MayInternationalGuinness Blues onthe Bay FestivalWarrenpoint17 – 19 JuneDalriada FestivalGlenarm Castle, Glenarm18 JuneBefast CityCarnivalBelfast29 June – 3 JulyCeltronicDerry1&2 JulyWillowstone Artsand Music FestivalKillyleagh14 – 17 JulyCeltic FusionCastlewellan23 JulyGlasgowburyDraperstown24 – 31 JulyFiddlers GreenRostrevorJuly*Trans Belfast andUrban Arts FestivalBelfast4 – 7 AugustBelfast Taste andMusic FestBelfast19 –21 AugustSunflower FestivalHillsborough28 AugustBelfast MelaBelfastAugust*Feile an PhobailBelfastAugust*BelsonicBelfast07 – 11 SeptemberOpen HouseFestivalBelfast24 SeptemberCulture NightBelfastSeptember *Appalachian andBluegrass FestivalOmagh14 – 29 OctoberUlster BankBelfast Festivalat Queen'sBelfast28 – 31 OctoberBanks of the FoyleHalloween FestivalLondonderry17 – 20 NovemberWilliam KennedyPiping FestivalArmagh18 November –4 DecemberCinemagicBelfastNovember*Belfast MusicWeekBelfastNovember*MTV Europe MusicAwards Belfast2011Belfast* Dates to be confirmed. In advance of travel, please checkdiscovernorthernireland.com/music for further information.JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

“There are so many reasonsto love Northern Ireland. I thinknow is the right time to writeabout how I love my home.I've come to realise how muchthe place actually means to me.”Gary LightbodyTo book, or find more information on Northern Ireland'smusical happenings, visit discovernorthernireland.comYou’ll find great places to sleep and eat – and fantasticspecial offers too.Information correct at time of going to press.JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

NITB BelfastNorthern Ireland Tourist BoardSt Anne's Court, 59 North Street,BELFAST, BT1 1NBTel: +44 (0) 28 9023 1221Fax: +44 (0) 28 9024 0960Email: info@nitb.comTextphone: +44 (0) 28 9089 5512discovernorthernireland.com

NITB DublinTourist Information CentreSuffolk Street,DUBLIN 2Tel: +353 (0)1 605 7732CallSave: 1850 230 230Fax: +353 (0)1 605 7725Email: infodublin@nitb.comdiscovernorthernireland.com