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Much of the music played by the group comes from the ancient music of the Irish harpers, and Carolan. Another sizeable part is drawn from the traditional dance music and songs of Ireland.

The band formed in 1992, the year of the harp, so named because it celebrated the Belfast Harp Festival of 1792, the event when the last of Ireland's old style harpers gathered to perform and compete, and where, for the first time, their music was written down.

An evening with Tale of the Gael is always more than an evening of music. The repertoire is sprinkled with interesting facts and anecdotes drawn from the living tradition of Irish music and the ancient world of the Irish harp.

This entertaining mix of information and music is always intriguing to
audiences generally, many of whom appreciate this fascinating glimpse into
the realms of Irish Music.

The group initially comprised of:
Eileen Carr, Silver flute
Margaret Rhatigan, Irish Harp, Whistle
Catherine Rhatigan Irish Harp

All three come from County Sligo, Ireland.

The lineup regularly expands to include guest musicians, some of whom have played so often with the band that their music is now an integral part of the magical sound that is Tale of the Gael.

Current visitors include:
Veronica Stalder, Voice, fiddle and viola;
Dave Aebli, Double bass, guitar and bozouki;
Martin Byrne, Fiddle;
Prannie Rhatigan, Percussion;

Veronica Stalder is currently studying music in Lucrne, Switzerland, and spent many years in Co. Clare, Ireland, where she picked up her traditional fiddle playing.

Dave Aebli is an accomplished string player who revels in the traditional styles of both Greek and Irish music, and is a founder member of the well known gypsy swing band Chef de Kef.

Prannie Rhatigan
Prannie Rhatigan often joins the group when a percussionist is called for, and has accompanied the group on musical visits to Europe, South Africa and the U.S.

Martin Byrne lives in Cliffoney, County Sligo, where he works as a tour guide and gardener. Martin plays traditional fiddle and is a member of the Trad Counsel.

Like the itinerant harpers of the 17th century, Tale of the Gael are also well traveled. The timeless appeal of Irish music, old and new, and the predominantly harp focus of the band, has ensured a welcome for these musicians throughout Ireland and the U.S. and across Europe.

The band is especially popular for weddings, concerts, corporate functions and events where Irish music is required in an elegant, harmonious way, yet without compromise to its authenticity.

Since forming, Tale of the Gael has entertained audiences in most of Ireland`s great castles, has featured on radio and television many times, and has been invited to perform for Meryl Streep, the Irish–American Kennedy Family, and for various diplomatic events where a blend of traditionalism and sophistication is required.