Joanna Sweeney

Joanna Sweeney is an Irish traditional musician, performing artist & academic with a Master of Arts in Irish traditional music performance awarded from the Irish World Academy of Music & Dance, University of Limerick. Currently focusing on regional styles of Irish traditional music particularly the North Connaught region on the West coast of Ireland. Styles within traditional music are constantly evolving due to factors including technology, travel, social movement and this is an integral aspect of intangible cultural heritage globally. Playing Irish traditional music, immersed within the living culture is her truest expression. Developing as a musician & opportunities that are arising through total immersion of practice, observation & research within the field are driving goals at present & manifesting throughout the research and creative process. She has played at national festivals, international showcases, TEDx, Bergen Fleadh, Norway (2024/25), Boyle Arts Festival, Trad@Lunch series at the Hawk’s well theatre, Ireland while also becoming the recipient of the ‘Time at the well’ residency for 2025. To date she has been awarded funding for many artistic projects from Creative Ireland, Culture Ireland, The Arts Council and Sligo Arts Service.