A TRIP to Belfast for a break felt like a bit of a busman’s holiday, but the Fleadh was simply irresistible.

I love music of all kinds, from The Beatles and Clannad to Freddie Mercury and Scott Joplin – even Kneecap or the Proms. If a pub has music on, I’m like a moth to a flame.

As actor and director Kenneth Branagh said, Belfast is a city of stories.

Unfortunately, some of those stories haven’t always been uplifting.

Thank you for the music, and the joy you’ve given - The Irish News view

Noel Doran: This may have been the greatest week in Belfast’s history

It’s a city shaped by its industrial heritage, competing cultures, yarns, poetry and music, as much as its fractious past and ever-present 21 miles of peace walls infrastructure.

Occasionally, the true potential of this great city is glimpsed through the hosting of events like the Giro d’Italia, the Tall Ships Festival, and now the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Last week, Belfast came alive as the rich tapestry of music transcended age-old divisions, prejudices and suspicions.

I watched in amazement as Middle Eastern children beat out jigs on their darkbuka drum and a squeeze box accordion.

I was blown away by the smouldering, silky tones of an elderly man playing Ave Maria on a clarinet. In awe of the high kicks of a five-year-old wee girl dancing a reel, wrapped up in the moment.

I enjoyed the talents of the Irish News........

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