Beara is a musical journey through the landscapes, stories and traditions of the Beara Peninsula, performed by harpist Tara Viscardi, who is from Lauragh on the Beara Peninsula, and flautist Robert Harvey. Combining original compositions with traditional tunes collected on the peninsula since the 18th century, the programme reflects the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable place.
Inspired by the legend of Princess Beara, who is said to have travelled from Castile to Ireland to marry Owen Mór, King of Ireland, the music explores themes of place, belonging and memory. Tara's compositions draw deeply on the natural beauty, folklore and atmosphere of her home place, while traditional melodies from across the peninsula add historical depth and character.
The repertoire includes music associated with the Dwyer family of Caolrua, tunes inspired by stories from the Beara Book of Wonders, and the celebrated O'Sullivan's March, believed to commemorate the epic journey of Donal Cam O'Sullivan Beare and his followers in the early 17th century.
Together, these pieces create a vivid musical portrait of Beara, where landscape, myth, history and tradition intertwine.