Matt Molloy

• Genre: Celtic Folk
• Hometown: Ballaghadereen

About

Distinguishing himself as a flute player with some of the most important traditional Irish bands, including the Bothy Band, Planxty and the Chieftains, Matt Molloy is regarded by many as the greatest Irish flute player ever. He started playing at age 8 and had won the All Ireland flute championship by age 17. Characterized by a warm, full tone, his vibrant flute dances through melodies with grace and dexterity. Though he's primarily played in large groups, Molloy's critically acclaimed solo projects are more intimate, usually instrumental, and feature one or two other musicians on guitar, bouzouki and/or fiddle. When he's not touring with the Chieftains he's likely to be found at his pub, Matt Molloy's, in Westport, County Mayo, Ireland -- which, not surprisingly, is known for its traditional Irish jam sessions.

- Robert Leaver