Matt Molloy is one of Ireland’s most famous traditional musicians. A member of the Chieftains, but also of the Planxty, Matt Molloy is a great specialist of the Irish flute. A glimpse into the life of this accomplished musician…
Matt Molloy was born in Ballaghadereen, County Roscommon (a famous place for flautists). Throughout his childhood, he was immersed in the Sligo flute tradition, and took up the Irish flute at the age of 8. His apprenticeship is rigorous and assiduous.
At the age of 17, he won the “All-Ireland Flute Championship” and a series of successes at the “National Fleadh Cheoil and Oireachtas”. He then moved to Dublin in the early 70s, where he began to join the scene and was noticed by Paddy Moloney. During these years, as the folk scene developed, Molloy became a founding member of the famous “Bothy Band”, a traditional Irish group. After their split in 1978, he briefly appeared in a reconstituted band: Planxty.
In 1979, Paddy Moloney invited him to join the Chieftains.
“Boil the breakfeast early” (Chieftains 9) is his first album with the band, and already his future influence is clearly evident. Molloy comes with a solid musical background, and is famous within the Sligo flute tradition.
It was a huge success for the band, and Matt Molloy’s reputation soon exploded beyond Ireland’s borders. Everyone praises his talent on the flute, and his good-natured spirit.
Over the course of his career, Molloy has released many acclaimed solo albums, and worked with many other accomplished musicians. He has teamed up with Paul Brady, Tommy Peoples, Micheál Ó Súilleabháin, Dónal Lunny and the Irish Chamber Orchestra.
In addition to the stage, Matt Molloy owns a pub in Westport, County Mayo, called “Matt Molloy’s”, where he recorded a live album. This pub is well known for its sessions with numerous musicians. Molloy is known for his breathy style and energy on stage.
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