To celebrate La Fête de la musique (World Music Day - 21 June) we are delighted to present Irish Music in France: A Sixth Province?, a documentary directed by Hervé Cantal and Falc'her-Poyroux, with the support of the University of Tours and the Maison des Sciences sociales et des Humanités Val de Loire.

Based on 80 interviews conducted across France, this film explores the incredible journey of traditional Irish music beyond its borders and its diaspora, that “fifth province” so dear to Mary Robinson.

Like jazz or reggae, Irish music now forms part of the world’s cultural heritage, and is now experienced as a true space of freedom by musicians of all generations where everyone can now forge their own cultural identity.

Hervé Cantal is a musician and radio producer.

Erick Falc'her-Poyroux is a University Professor and musician.

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Part of La Fête de la musique in Ireland 2026 - full programme to be announced soon.