The traditional X-Factor
 By Joe Mullarkey
SIiansa Gael Linn is a renowned competition for young traditional music
and singing groups organised by Gael Linn and supported by RTÉ
Raidó na Gaeltachta now entering its sixth year.
Siansa provides a platform for traditional groups who are aiming to develop
a style similar to bands such as Téada, Altan and Dervish.
Although it is a competition with a large prize fund Siansa sets out primarily
to promote traditional music and singing by providing help and advice
to young musicians through workshops given by well-known professional
musicians.
Young people taking part in Siansa must be over 12 and under 19 years
of age and groups may have between five and eight members.
Among those who have shared their knowledge with the young people and
who have also adjudicated at Siansa are Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh
and Mark Kelly (both members of Altan), Máire Breatnach, Mary Bergin,
Ciarán Ó Gealbháin, Johnny Ó Connolly, Charlie
Lennon, Gerry O'Connor, Cormac de Barra and Michael Rooney.
The Siansa 2007 All-Ireland Finals will be held in the Mullingar Arts
Centre, Co. Westmeath on Friday, April 20.
The winning group will receive 2,250 and have their performance recorded
on CD together with the groups who come in second and third place respectively.
At the 2006 final a cheque for 2,000 along with the Gael Linn trophy
was presented to the winners Na Mothúcháin from Ratoath
in Co. Meath.
Cheques for 1,000 and 500 were awarded to Bóthar na Sop from
Meánscoil San Nioclás in Co. Waterford and Anáil
from Athenry in Co. Galway who came in second and third places respectively.
Application forms and further information may be obtained from Gael Linn,
35 Dame Street, Dublin 2.
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