Congratulations to world famous composer, musician and CFA Artist-in-Residence at UCD, Dónal Lunny, who received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual RTÉ Irish Folk Awards on Wednesday 26th February 2025.

Dónal Lunny is one of the most influential figures in Irish traditional music over the past 50 years, as a founding member, arranger and producer of groups such as Planxty, The Bothy Band and Moving Hearts. Along With Dr Peter Moran, Dónal has contributed massively to the development of new modules in Traditional Music Practice and has shared his expertise and talent in CFA at UCD lectures, showcases and performances.

Speaking to RTÉ News, the Irish music star said: “It’s only when I look back at my career that I see the road I have travelled and the wonderful friends I have made through this community and getting this award means so much to me – the recognition of a lifetime making music”.

Dónal Lunny was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Folk Awards by longtime collaborator and friend Christy Moore. Donal also performed with his new group, Dónal Lunny’s Darkhorse, as part of the celebrations.

Lunny joins a distinguished list of Lifetime Achievement recipients that iincludes Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill (2024), Mary Black (2022), Christy Moore (2021), Steve Cooney (2020), Moya Brennan (2019) and Andy Irvine (2018).