Person to Person: 'I’m looking forward to a summer full of music and travelling'

Tell us about yourself;

My name is Éimhear Flannery. I’m from Rockchapel in north-west Cork which is situated in the heart of Sliabh Luachra. I’m a multi-instrumentalist and I’m currently studying medicine in Queens University Belfast.

Where were you born?

The Real Capital, Cork.

Irish by birth, Cork by the grace of God!

Where do you live?

I’m currently living in Belfast as I’m studying medicine in Queen’s University.

Family?

Mom (Martina), dad (Martin), sister (Caoimhe) and two lovely golden retrievers, Lucy and Lily.

Best friend?

Very difficult to choose just one person!

Person you most admire?

My mom and dad, without a doubt! I wouldn’t be where I am without their love, support, and encouragement.

Person who most irritates you?

People with big egos.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

New York! I visited the city a few years ago before Christmas and it was so magical.

Favourite TV programme?

Ar Son na Cúise le Ray agus Joe on TG4.

Favourite radio show?

Ceol Binn ó na Beanna le Neansaí Ní Choisdealbha.

Your signature dish if cooking?

Savoury: Cottage pie. Dessert: Chocolate brownies or carrot cake.

Favourite restaurant?

Still searching!

Last book you read?

Gas Man by Colin Black.

Best book you read?

Gas Man by Colin Black.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Cuas album

Favourite song?

Bó na Leathadhairce.

One person you would like to see in concert?

Kingfishr

Do you have a pet?

Two golden retrievers, Lucy and Lily.

Morning person or night owl?

Morning person without a doubt!

Your proudest moment?

Education - Studying to become a doctor is one of my biggest achievements so far.

Music – Playing with Ceoltóirí Chualann, Peadar O’Riada and Cór Cúil Aodha in the National Concert Hall in Dublin.

Spendthrift or saver?

Depends! Probably more of a spender!

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

Potholes.

What makes you happy?

Family, friends, music, Corca Dhuibhne.

How would you like to be remembered?

My smile and how I made people feel.

What else are you up to at the moment?

At the moment, I’m currently finishing university summer exams, and I’m looking forward to a summer full of music and travelling.

• Éimhear Flannery is an acclaimed Irish traditional musician from Rockchapel, Co. Cork, known for her mastery of the tin whistle, concertina, piano and for Sean nós singing and dancing. She won the prestigious Seán Ó Riada Gold Medal (Bonn Óir Seán Ó Riada) in 2024 for her whistle playing

• This July, Éimhear joins the Belfast TradFest summer school as a tutor, with the festival running July 26–August 2 and featuring concerts, céilís, talks, festival clubs, masterclasses and one of Ireland’s leading session trails. See: belfasttraditionalmusic.com