Interview

Fiddler Martin Hayes on life, death and bringing traditional Irish music to worldwide audiences

Fiddler Martin Hayes has come a long way since playing Chicago bars in the 1990s – he’s embraced collaboration, come to terms with the loss of musical partner Dennis Cahill, and his creative journey continues with the Common Ground Ensemble project, writes John Walshe

Martin Hayes: for his latest project, the Common Ground Ensemble, Hayes has gathered together a host of stellar musicians with different styles. Picture: Bryan Meade

Martin Hayes is sitting in the Kevin Barry Rooms at the National Concert Hall, a venue that has become a musical home from home for the east Clare fiddler. He has graced its stage many times with myriad collaborators, including his fellow innovators in the Gloaming as well as New York avant-garde string quartet Brooklyn Rider.

For his latest project, the Common Ground Ensemble, Hayes has gathered together a host of stellar musicians with different ...