Saoithe episode 5 features flute player Matt Molloy. As a solo artist and an integral part of The Chieftains since 1979, Matt stands apart as one of the country's truly outstanding musicians.

By the time Matt moved from his home in Ballaghadereen Co. Roscommon in the mid 1960s he had already gained a reputation for his musical ability on the flute, amassing a string of successes at the Fleadh and Oireachtas competitions. Once in Dublin he quickly became a leading figure in the bourgeoning music scene. A founder member of The Bothy Band, Matt also spent a short period with Planxty. He has enjoyed enduring and powerful musical relationships with many musicians including Liam O'Flynn, Seán Keane, Paul Brady, Tommy Peoples, Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin, and Dónal Lunny.

The long-format Q&A style interviews, with performance and illustrative archival recordings, expand our understanding of these artists by exploring their influences and by seeking out their personal philosophies as traditional artists.

The fortnightly series premiered with Christy Moore in conversation with ITMA Director Liam O'Connor, and can be freely viewed on the ITMA YouTube Channel and on Facebook.

The series continues each fortnight with: Catherine McEvoy, Frankie Gavin, Sarah Ghriallais, Matt Molloy, Dolly McMahon, and Paddy Moloney (1938-2021).

SAOITHE is an extension of ITMA’s online archival series Drawing from the Well which is available to watch here: https://www.itma.ie/drawingfromthewell

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