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Old-time musicians from across the region will gather at the Hagood Mill Historic Site for the annual SoutHagood Mill Historic Site and Young Appalachian Musicians (YAM) are excited to announce a rare cultural opportunity this fall as they partner to welcome a troupe of award-winning Irish musicians, singers, and dancers from County Clare, Ireland. The group, known as Tigh na Coille, will visit Pickens on November 5–6, 2025, as part of their American cultural tour.
The ensemble of 18 students and two teacher-chaperones will arrive from the John C. Campbell Folk School in North Carolina, bringing with them a vibrant exchange of traditional Irish music, dance, and heritage. Their visit to Pickens will provide a bridge between Appalachian and Irish traditions — a meeting of two musical cultures that share deep historical roots.
A Celebration of Culture and Connection
This two-day visit offers a unique opportunity for the community to experience and participate in a living exchange of heritage and artistry. Highlights include:
- Collaborative Performances:
- Local youth from Young Appalachian Musicians (YAM) will join the Tigh na Coille performers for a special showcase of Appalachian and Irish traditions.
- Dance Exchange:
- The HotFoot Cloggers of Six Mile will meet their Irish counterparts, sharing steps and styles in an interactive dance experience.
- Educational Opportunity:
- Students from Pickens Middle School and other music and YAM classes throughout the Pickens County School District will enjoy a special school-day performance, immersing them in Irish music and culture.
- Evening Community Gatherings:
- Two nights of cultural exchange and fun at Hagood Mill Historic Site, where guests will enjoy performances, jams, and dancing — true to the Gaelic spirit of “Failte,” meaning welcome.
Public Events at Hagood Mill Historic Site
- Wednesday, November 5 — Irish Music & Appalachian Jam (7:00–9:30 PM)
- 7:00–8:30 PM: Performances by Irish and Appalachian musicians
- 8:30–9:30 PM: Community jam session (all welcome to join)
- Thursday, November 6 — Irish Dance & Square Dance Celebration (7:00–9:30 PM)
- 7:00–8:30 PM: Performances by Irish and Appalachian dancers
- 8:30–9:30 PM: Community square dance and Irish party
Suggested Donation: $5 per person.
Groups, students, and families are welcome.
To reserve group participation, please contact Betty McDaniel at mcdanibw@bellsouth.net or (864) 230-9695 by October 21.
About the Performers:
Tigh na Coille, meaning “House in the Woods,” hails from County Clare, Ireland — a region renowned for its musical legacy. This powerhouse ensemble of talented teens and young adults are multi-time All-Ireland Champions in traditional Irish music, song, and step dance. Under the guidance of acclaimed educators Denis Liddy and Elvie Miller, they perform worldwide, including recent tours across New England, Bulgaria, and the Netherlands.
Their performances showcase instruments such as the fiddle, harp, concertina, wooden flute, and banjo, blending artistry, energy, and authenticity to create an unforgettable celebration of Irish culture.
Learn more about Tigh na Coille at their official site: https://tighnacoille.org
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