MACALLA

Macalla is a collaborative project funded by the BRITISH COUNCIL which unites musicians from both Northern Irish and Iraqi cultures. Throughout 2025/6 the relationships and the project will further develop in conjunction with Earagail Arts Festival, Mshakt Collective, North West Folk Collective and Celtic Connections.

MACALLA is comprised of:

Niwar Issa - Qanun

Lucia McGinnis - Harp

Samann Kareem - Oud

Martin Coyle - Bouzouki

Paul Cutliffe - Uilleann Pipes, Clarinet, Low Whistle

Denise Boyle - Fiddle

Helin Star - Violin

Giovanni Squillacioti - Frame Drum and percussion

Hussein al-Harbi - Eastern percussion