John Creedon explores the songs that shaped Ireland as Musical Atlas returns to RTÉ One

Amble and John Creedon in Creedon's Musical Atlas of Ireland 2026 (Episode 2)

Music, memory and identity take centre stage this weekend as John Creedon returns to RTÉ One with a new series exploring the stories behind Ireland’s musical heritage.

The broadcaster’s acclaimed documentary series, Creedon’s Musical Atlas of Ireland, begins on Sunday 2 August at 6.30pm, taking viewers on a journey across the country to discover how music has helped shape Irish identity through generations.

Exploring the music that defines Ireland

Across the three-part series, Creedon travels the length and breadth of Ireland, meeting musicians, historians and cultural experts to uncover the traditions, stories and emotions woven into Irish music.

The opening episode draws inspiration from one of Ireland’s oldest myths — the magical harp of The Dagda, which was said to play three noble musical strains: Suantraí (lullaby), Geantraí (joy) and Goltraí (lament).

Creedon examines how each of those ancient traditions continues to resonate in modern Ireland.

Presenter John Creedon

The programme begins with Suantraí, exploring the country’s rich tradition of lullabies through performances by Sibéal Ní Chasaide and Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill. Their contribution poses an important question: what is lost when families stop singing traditional lullabies to their children?

The focus then shifts to Geantraí, celebrating music that brings energy, celebration and community spirit, featuring performances by The Scratch and Absolute Lilt.

Finally, the episode explores Goltraí, music that expresses grief and loss, as Fermanagh singer Róis examines Ireland’s ancient tradition of keening, where women led communities in mourning through song.

Music as a language of emotion

The opening programme also features Galway composer Eímear Noone, the first woman to conduct the orchestra at the Academy Awards.

Eimear Noone in Creedon's Musical Atlas of Ireland 2026 (Episode 1)

Performing her composition Malach, Angel Messenger with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Noone reflects on writing the piece following the loss of her child, using music to express the different stages of grief.

A revival of Irish folk music

The second episode, airing on Sunday 9 August, explores why Irish folk music is enjoying a resurgence among younger generations.

Creedon traces the evolution of the genre from the influential balladeers of the 1960s and 1970s to today’s contemporary artists, meeting songwriter Phil Coulter, singer-songwriter Eleanor McEvoy, folk trio Amble, Damien Dempsey and Dublin hip-hop artist KhakiKid.

Damien Dempsey in Creedon's Musical Atlas of Ireland 2026 (Episode 2)

John and Pat McCabe (Episode 3)

Róis in Creedon's Musical Atlas of Ireland 2026 (Episode 1)

John Creedon and Khaki Kid in Creedon's Musical Atlas of Ireland 2026 (Episode 2)

Together, they explore how modern musicians continue to draw on storytelling, identity and place to reflect contemporary Ireland.

The stories behind Ireland’s love songs

The series concludes on Sunday 16 August with an exploration of Irish love songs, from John McCormack’s Macushla to Orla Gartland’s Mine.

Featuring contributions from Jack L, Orla Gartland, Mary Coughlan, John Spillane and writer Pat McCabe, the programme examines why these songs continue to resonate with audiences across generations.

John Creedon in the studio

Reflecting on the series, Creedon said:

“Music has always helped us connect, with our families, our neighbours and ourselves. These traditions still have something important to say, and this series is about rediscovering them.”

When to watch

Creedon’s Musical Atlas of Ireland begins on Sunday 2 August at 6.30pm on RTÉ One and will also be available to stream on RTÉ Player.

The three-part series continues on Sunday 9 August and Sunday 16 August, each airing at 6.30pm.