For generations of folk music enthusiasts the name of the McPeake Family of Belfast has stood for one of the most distinctive sounds in Irish music.

Francis McPeake I (1885-1971) penned one of Ireland’s signature songs, the beloved “Wild Mountain Thyme” also known as “Will Ye Go Lassis,Go”. It has been recorded by Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Rod Stewart, The Byrds, The Cheiftains, The Clancy Brothers, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, The Irish Rovers, Jean Redpath, Glen Frey, and a host of many other music luminaries.

The McPeake family founded a school for Irish traditional music in Belfast and it continues to be a cultural gem in the Irish diaspora, currently under the direction of Francis McPeake IV. 

Francis McPeake IV, the fourth generation of this world-famous musical dynasty and one of the few authentic uilleann pipers in the world today, has put together a revived band, 'McPeake', which is unique in the world of music with its fusion of original Celtic compositions and contemporary rhythms and styles. He first brought McPeake (the current group) together for a stage show based on the Titanic, that he co-wrote in 2003. Since then they have worked with many prominent Irish artists including Brian Kennedy, Finbar Furey, Kieren Goss, Juliet Turner, and Ralph McTell.

No musical borders are left uncrossed – the refreshing, varied sound of McPeake organically grows from its members,

Each McPeake member is an artist in their own right. Each has performed with many international artists including Van Morrison, Mary Black, Ronan Keating, Riverdance, John Hurt, Denis Hopper, The Chieftans and more. Their experiences bring a twist to McPeake. McPeake has a creative approach to music, blending influences from Irish traditional, folk, acoustic and country genres to create their own unique sound that is an experience for the ears and soul.

Some family highlights – a sold out concert a Royal Albert Hall, a tour of Russia, collaborations with Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, Judy Collins, Doc Watson and many more. A surprise performance for the Beatles at the “Magical Mystery Tour” party in London resulted in John Lennon taking Uileann Pipes lessons from Francis.

http://www.mcpeakemusic.com/