Liam O’Flynn (15 Sept 1945 – 14 Mar 2018) was widely hailed as the pre-eminent master of the uilleann pipes of his generation. Raised in Kill, Co. Kildare, he absorbed the tradition directly from great mentors such as Seamus Ennis and Leo Rowsome, then carried it to global stages when he co-founded the trail-blazing folk group Planxty with Christy Moore, Andy Irvine and Dónal Lunny in 1972.

After the band’s landmark albums and tours, O’Flynn forged a luminous solo path: recording orchestral suites with composer Shaun Davey, teaming with Seamus Heaney on The Poet & The Piper, and adding his distinctive chanter to works by Kate Bush, The Chieftains, Mark Knopfler and more. His five solo albums—including Out to an Other Side (1993), The Given Note (1995) and The Piper’s Call (1999)—showcased virtuosic technique married to lyrical restraint. Awarded numerous honours and serving as a guardian of Na Píobairí Uilleann, he remained rooted in Kildare, where he inspired generations of musicians until his passing in 2018. The Féile that bears his name celebrates that living legacy—music of depth, precision and quiet magic.

Now in its fourth year, the Féile Liam O’Flynn has grown into a vibrant annual festival that brings world-class traditional musicians to Naas and Kill, while also offering concerts, céilí dancing, workshops, and sessions for all to enjoy. Behind it all is a small but dedicated committee, giving their time, skills, and energy to make the event possible. With so much happening over the festival weekend – from welcoming artists and audiences to setting up venues and ensuring everything runs smoothly – extra helping hands are always appreciated. Even a few hours of your time during those busy days can make a real difference in creating a warm, well-run, and memorable celebration of music and community.

As a committee, we are proud to play our part in keeping Liam’s memory and music alive through the Féile. The friendships formed, the moments of music that stop you in your tracks and the shared pride in seeing our community come together make all the hard work worthwhile. We look forward to welcoming familiar faces and new friends this year – whether you join us in the audience, take part in a workshop, dance at a céilí, or lend a hand over the weekend, you’ll be part of what makes this festival so special.