Métier, the British new-music label known for its dedication to contemporary composers, deepens its ties with Ireland’s vibrant musical landscape with a striking new release in early 2025. This album presents premiere recordings of Seán Doherty’s captivating works for string quartet, enriched by voice and traditional Irish instruments. Hailed as “unfailingly gripping” (Irish Times) and “wonderfully imaginative, colourful” (Irish Examiner), Doherty’s chamber music masterfully fuses Irish traditional and classical traditions, creating vivid and dramatic narratives. His compositions traverse poignant themes of death, mourning, and defining moments in Irish history, including the Great Famine, the Easter Rising, and the Troubles.

This recording captures the essence of his music, which has captivated live audiences and now receives its first studio treatment. The performers on this album represent the pinnacle of Irish traditional and classical music.