RTÉ has announced that Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill will be recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 6th RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards.

A founder member of the legendary folk outfits Skara Brae and The Bothy Band, Tríona Ní Dhomnaill is one of Ireland’s leading interpreters of folk and traditional music, as well as a composer and songwriter of worldwide renown, with a recording and performing career spanning a half-century.

Commenting on learning of her Lifetime Achievement Award, Tríona said: “I am delighted and honoured to accept this award for my life in music. It is lovely and heartwarming to be acknowledged in such a way, and I am very grateful for this special recognition of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is made annually by the Executive Steering Committee of the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards to a living artist who has made a significant contribution to Irish folk music over many years.

The previous winners are Mary Black (2022), Christy Moore (2021), Steve Cooney (2020), Moya Brennan (2019) and Andy Irvine (2018).

In making the award to Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill, the Executive Steering Committee cited, in particular, her influence on other musicians – especially singers and keyboard players – who followed in her wake.

One of these is Natalie Ní Chasaide – renowned pianist and keyboard player with the Bonny Men – who responded to the news of Tríona’s Lifetime Achievement Award by saying: “Growing up, Tríona was such an influence on me. Her way of playing is so iconic, so individual and so perfect. It’s modern and exciting, and yet it sounds so ancient, like it’s always been there. And always should have been there.”

The RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards will be broadcast live from Vicar Street, Dublin on Tuesday 27th of February, on RTÉ Radio 1 and the RTÉ Radio App from 8pm.

Hosted by RTÉ’s John Creedon; the event is open to the public and will feature live performances from Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin, Niamh Bury, Bláth na hÓige, Johnny McEvoy, Rhiannon Giddens and more.

Highlights from the Awards will be broadcast on RTÉ One television on Saturday 2nd March 2024.

Tickets for the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards event are on sale now – find out more here.