The awards were established in 2018 and include recipients such as Martin Hayes, Emma Langford, Declan O'Rourke, Moya Brennan, Andy Irvine, Saint Sister, Steve Cooney, Lisa O'Neill and Lankum.
Using the universal symbol of guitar playing, ‘the plectrum’, the shape itself has nostalgic connotations evocative of an abstract heart, metaphorically offering support and recognition to Irish folk musicians.
Symbolically, the intersecting lines of the overlapping plectrum forms share a common point and remind us that folk music is a global connector.
Applying these strong emotional and aesthetic connections to the formal principles in design of rhythm, the sculptural awards are imbued with exuberant qualities which invoke movement and music, celebrating our folk heritage.
While the awards ceremony is not broadcast live on television, the entire show is filmed and the highlights can be streamed on YouTube or RTÉ Player.
[7] The nominees shortlist is announced annually in September and is selected by a judging panel of 40 people, among them musicians, promoters, broadcasters, journalists, bloggers and venue owners.