Tradition with flair
Welcome to Gladstone Band, a new Irish band dedicated to preserving the soul of traditional Irish music. Explore our site to discover our music, upcoming events, and more. Join us in celebrating the rich heritage of Irish musical tradition. We're delighted you're here!
Come see us live in December
In the Gladstone Band, we blend time-honoured Irish musical techniques with fresh energy. Our dedication lies in crafting unforgettable experiences, preserving tradition, and connecting with our audience through genuine artistry.
Our first headline gig is in Whelan's on the 16th of December. It is an honour to have our debut show in Whelan's, alongside hundreds of great bands and artists who had Whelan's as their first big Irish show, and went onto global fame and spreading of joy to millions.
Le gra , Adam , Tadhg & Pa
Explore our world
Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Gladstone Band. From soulful melodies to lively jigs, our repertoire is a celebration of Irish musical heritage. Discover our diverse range of musical offerings, all meticulously crafted to resonate with your soul.
Live performances
Join us for unforgettable live performances, bringing the spirit of Ireland to you.
About us
Gladstone Band is a group of passionate musicians based in Dublin, Ireland, dedicated to preserving and celebrating traditional Irish music. Our music reflects our love for Irish heritage, combining time-honored techniques with a modern approach.
Echoes of ireland
Discover the essence of Irish music through our heartfelt performances. We strive to transport you to the heart of Ireland with every note.
The reason behind the name
- The inspiration behind the Gladstone Band's name is about owning our past, reclaiming the narrative from a colonist ruler like William Gladstone who symbolized British dominance over Ireland. By adopting his name, the band keeps alive the traditions of Irish music and culture that endured despite his era's attempts to squash Gaelic identity and autonomy. It's a bold act of defiance, turning a symbol of oppression into one of celebration, showing how we can celebrate our hard-won freedom by owning his name and reshaping it for our purposes. Naming ourselves Gladstone highlights the irony: a man associated with colonial policies now lends his legacy to amplifying Republican voices through rebel songs and marches. This choice honors the resilience of Irish traditions, proving that music and heritage outlasted imperial efforts to erode them under leaders like Gladstone. It serves as a reminder that history is not fixed; we can repurpose names of the powerful to empower the marginalized, fostering pride in our survival.
The band's name embodies cultural reclamation, transforming a figure of authority into a badge of resistance and artistic expression in the Republican spirit. Through our music, they mock the colonist's legacy, using it as a platform to revive and innovate on Irish tunes that persisted through suppression. Owning Gladstone's name allows the band to educate listeners on Ireland's struggles, blending history with harmony to inspire future generations. Ultimately, it's a triumphant declaration: in freedom, we dictate the meaning of our oppressors' symbols, turning them into instruments of joy and unity.
"Gladstone Band brought the true spirit of Ireland to our event. Their music was enchanting, and their performance was unforgettable!"
Aisling Murphy
"The passion and skill of Gladstone Band are evident in every song they play. They are a true treasure to the Irish music scene."
Cillian Byrne
"Their music transported me back to my childhood in Ireland. Gladstone Band's dedication to tradition is truly inspiring."
Saoirse O'Malley
Contact us
Location
Dublin, Ireland