Join us for a special evening celebrating the life and legacy of Sarah Makem (1900–1983), one of Ireland’s most treasured source singers and a guardian of the rich Ulster ballad tradition.
Born in Keady, County Armagh, Sarah carried a remarkable repertoire of songs learned through oral tradition. Her distinctive unaccompanied singing drew the attention of renowned collectors including Sean O’ Boyle, Peter Kennedy, Diane Hamilton, Jean Ritchie and Alan Lomax, whose recordings preserved her voice for future generations.
Her songs reached international audiences through the BBC radio programme As I Roved Out and through her son, Tommy Makem of The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, yet her singing always remained deeply rooted in home and community.
This commemorative concert brings together family and local artists to honour Sarah’s enduring contribution to Irish traditional song—an evening of heritage, memory and the living tradition she so beautifully sustained.
Sunday 8th March 2026
Tí Chulainn, Mullaghbawn, Co. Armagh
5pm (Doors 4.30pm)
Tickets £10
