Another accolade for Donegal with Fidil’s Aidan O’Donnell, awarded TG4 Gradam Ceoil Young Musician of the Year. From Dunkineely, Co. Donegal, Aidan O’Donnell has been described as one of the finest young Irish musicians at present. He released his critically acclaimed debut album in 2006, with Mayo flute player Kieran Munnelly, called ‘In Safe Hands’, which has been described as ‘a salute to the players who have gone before’ (Matt Molloy, The Chieftains). “Aidan’s incredible technical ability combined with his deep love of the music of his ancestors will see him become one of the most influential Donegal fiddle players of this generation.’ (Siobhán Peoples) This year’s Gradam recipients range over a wide spectrum of talents. The full list of TG4 Gradam Ceoil 2010 is: Gradam Ceoil – Seán McKiernan, Ceoltóir Óg na bliana (Young Musician) – Aidan O’Donnell, Gradam Saoil (Hall of Fame) – Seán Potts, Cumadóir (Composer) – John and Finbarr Dwyer, Amhránaí na Bliana (Singer) – Cathal McConnell, Gradam na gCeoltóirí (Musicians’ Award) - Muiris Ó Rócháin.

An Independent Panel of Adjudicators selects recipients of the TG4 Gradam Ceoil. This year’s awards will be presented at a televised Gala Awards Ceremony and Concert that will take place in the Wexford Opera House on Saturday 27th March where the winners will be joined by a host of special guests in a concert that will be presented by Dáithí Ó Sé and will be recorded and broadcast on TG4 on Easter Sunday 4th April at 9.30pm. Ardstiúrthóir TG4, Pól Ó Gallchóir says that the Gradam Ceoil honours great figures in Irish traditional music during their lifetime. “We are proud to be fulfilling our role as the television home of traditional music,” he said.