The singer shares why she loves An Cailin Ciuin, and why Carrigaholt in Co Clare is so important to her
“An Cailin Ciuin”. I loved that An Cailín Ciúin was told in the Irish language — it gave the story a soulfulness that spoke to me deeply. The tender love shown to Cáit moved me — the way Eibhlín and Seán offered care so gently, so patiently, until she could finally feel safe.
The contrast between the two families was heartbreaking: one overflowing with children but lacking warmth, the other aching with loss yet full of love.I loved watching the bond between Cáit, Eibhlín, and Seán develop.
An Cailín Ciúin
And then, that final word — Daddy. It was so simple, yet so charged with emotion. In that moment, Cáit gave voice to everything she had felt but couldn’t say. It was love, recognition, and belonging wrapped into a single word.
Favourite book
John Faulkner’s Storm in My Heart: A Lifetime in Music is a deeply moving memoir that traces his six-decade journey through the Irish and British folk scenes. From wartime London to the musical heartlands of Kinvara, Faulkner shares intimate stories of collaboration with icons like Dolores Keane, Ewan MacColl, Peggy Seeger, and De Dannan. Rich with cultural insight and emotional depth, the book captures the spirit of a life devoted to music, love, and resilience. With forewords by President Michael D. Higgins and Andy Irvine, stunning color photographs, and QR codes linking to Faulkner’s recordings, it’s a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of folk music and the enduring power of song.
Life is borrowed — a fleeting gift — and kindness is the thread that binds us.
Favourite place
Carrigaholt, Co Clare, is a quiet oasis tucked along the shimmering banks of the River Shannon—a place where time seems to slow and the soul can breathe. Its gentle beach, winding walks, and kind-hearted people create a haven of peace and belonging. I carry precious memories of summers spent at O’Curry College, where the air was filled with song, dance, and the laughter of children from every corner of Ireland, all united through the beautiful rhythm of the Irish language. Carrigaholt isn’t just a place — it’s a part of me, woven into the fabric of my heritage and the music I carry forward.
Favourite song
May the Kindness, written by Dave Wood and sung by the wonderful Jackie Oates, The song is a gentle reminder of the quiet power of compassion. With lyrics that invite us to spend time with others, hold a hand, wipe a tear, and truly understand, the song speaks to the heart of what it means to live meaningfully. Life is borrowed — a fleeting gift — and kindness is the thread that binds us. Adopt it not just in passing, but as a way of being, and you’ll find that kindness, like a well-tended seed, returns to you in unexpected and beautiful ways.
Favourite food
I had to ask my kids and they all came back with Potatoes
Éinín An Cheóil by Fiona Tyndall is out now
