Morning Mix with Alan Corcoran

As Fleadh Cheoil draws to a close, we reflect on a week filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments. From the electric atmosphere on the streets to the standout performances that lit up the stages, we celebrate the magic that made this year’s festival one to remember.

Live in studio, we’re joined by two remarkable musicians — Karen Ní Bhroin, who recently made history as the first woman to conduct the BBC Proms, and her aunt, Nora Byrne Kavanagh. Dubbed the ‘Conductor to the Stars,’ Karen shares her journey to one of classical music’s biggest stages, while Nora adds her own stories and experiences to the conversation. Together, they bring us music, memories, and an inspiring glimpse into their lives on and off the stage.

Yesterday at Wexford Chadwicks Park, history was made at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann as 1,018 musicians from Ireland and beyond came together to smash the world record for the largest polka performance. From tin whistles to fiddles, uileann pipes to harps, the crowd delivered an electrifying, unforgettable performance under the watchful eye of Guinness adjudicator Glen Pollard. Join us as we relive the tension, the music, and the moment they made the record official.

Today on the show, we’re joined by Independent TD for Galway West and former Leas-Cheann Comhairle, Catherine Connolly. Known for her no-nonsense approach and passionate commitment to social justice, Catherine is now the first declared candidate in the upcoming presidential election. Tune in for an honest and engaging conversation about her journey, her vision for Ireland, and what drives her to seek the nation’s highest office.

This morning, we welcome An Tánaiste Simon Harris, Ireland’s youngest-ever Tánaiste and a dynamic voice in politics since 2011. From his time as Minister for Health and Education to his current role, Simon shares insights on everything from the Fleadh Cheoil and the future of third-level education to the vital role of Rosslare Europort, the IDA’s impact, and Ireland’s place on the international stage. Join us for a wide-ranging conversation about culture, commerce, and politics shaping Ireland today.

We’re joined live in studio by Labhras Ó Murchú, Ard Stiúrthóir of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. A central figure in championing Irish traditional music and culture, Labhras shares his insights on what makes the Fleadh so special, how it continues to evolve, and the powerful role it plays in connecting communities across generations.

In this powerful conversation, 'Sasha' joins us to explore how racism can appear in quiet, often unnoticed ways in our communities. Reflecting on recent events, Sasha invites us to listen more openly, think more deeply, and take real steps toward inclusion and belonging across Ireland.

Wexford’s own Lee Chin, one of Ireland’s leading GAA figures shares his thoughts on the deep connection between the Fleadh Cheoil and Gaelic games, and why both are key to keeping Irish culture vibrant and thriving in communities across the country.

They’ve wowed crowds from the 3Arena to the Late Late Show, and now The Wrafter Family Band are bringing their signature energy to Fleadh Cheoil 2025. Peter, Conor, and Thomas join me to chat about their exciting new chapter—their first original single, That Tune, dropping this Friday. They'll debut it live on the Gig-Rig the very next day. While mam Noreen and sister Aimee couldn’t make it today, the spirit of the full Wrafter clan is very much alive in this lively family chat.

Long waiting lists don’t have to mean long suffering. Gareth Crudden, GP Liaison Manager at Kingsbridge Hospital in Belfast, joins us to explain how patients in Wexford and the southeast can access quicker treatment through cross-border healthcare. If you’ve been stuck on a list for months—or even years—this might be the lifeline you’ve been waiting for.