Michael Flatley, best known for his extraordinary talents in Irish dance whose abilities have captivated audiences around the world, is also an exceptionally skilled flute player and composer of tunes in the traditional style. 

He has released several wonderful flute albums, including ‘On A Different Note’ and ‘The Gold Collection,’ showcasing his virtuosity on the instrument, his deep connection to traditional Irish music and some of his own outstanding compositions. 

As this month’s Saothar composer, Michael composed two reels, The Fighter and The Dreamer to honour the memory and legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco (1929-82). Born Grace Patricia Kelly in Philadelphia to Irish-born parents, as a young woman she starred in several movies in the 1950s before marrying Prince Rainier III in 1956. The award-winning actress, ever proud of her Irish heritage, amassed a very significant collection of materials relating to Irish studies and Irish-American song sheets. The Princess Grace Irish Library in Monaco continues to flourish and represents H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco’s continued commitment to honouring his mother’s legacy. 

Michael’s flute playing demonstrates not only his technical skill as a player but also his passion, understanding and commitment to Irish traditional music. His early career influences have played a significant role in shaping his own playing style. Growing up in Chicago, he was exposed to the rich tradition of Irish music through his family and through his engagement with musicians particularly on the southside of the Windy City.  

In his autobiography, ‘Lord of the Dance,’ Michael delves into his musical journey, detailing his experiences with the flute and how it has been a constant companion throughout his life. He reflects on the importance of music in his creative process and how playing the flute has been a source of inspiration and solace for him over the years. In fact, his opening words in Chapter One of the biography, entitled ‘Playing IT by Ear,’ begins with, “I love the flute because it’s the one instrument in the world where you can feel your own breath. When I play, I can feel my breath with my fingers. It’s as if I’m speaking from my soul.” (p. 3) 

His father, Michael James Flatley was from Gurteen, Co. Sligo, ‘Coleman Country,’ an area steeped in fiddle and flute music. He fondly remembers his father who “was always whistling the old Irish tunes – he seemed to know every single one.”  

This early exposure laid the foundation for Flatley’s deep connection to Irish music and his desire to master the art of flute playing. He recalls his determination to learn the instrument. As an eight-year-old, having been gifted an old wooden flute by his father and having saved up his pocket money to put towards lessons, he walked to a music shop hours away from his home only to be ridiculed by a shop attendant leaving him feeling dejected. 

Flatley won consecutive All-Ireland Flute Championships in a highly competitive field. His success in these prestigious competitions is a testament to his skill and dedication to the art of traditional Irish music and is even more remarkable against the background of his exceptional achievements in boxing and Irish dance during the same period.

Beyond his accomplishments as a flute player, Michael Flatley is also known for his extensive flute collection which he has amassed over many years, often working closely with flute player, maker, historian and restorer, Hammy Hamilton. It is believed to be one of the finest collections of wooden concert flutes in the world and contains exceptional examples of the most outstanding makers of the 18-21st century. 

His friendships with renowned musicians such as Matt Molloy, Kevin Henry, and Seamus Tansey has left an indelible mark on his style of playing. 

Michael, by invitation of Paddy Moloney, danced with The Chieftains and formed lifelong friendships with its members, including one of his heroes, Matt Molloy.  

Speaking about Michael, Matt says: “I have known Michael since he was an eighteen-year-old and have enjoyed our friendship ever since. In terms of music, in addition to his technical mastery of the flute, I can hear the good old flute style of the North Connaught tradition whenever he plays. His good friends and mentors Kevin Henry and Seamus Tansey have influenced him too. His commitment to Irish traditional music and his love of the flute, and flute-playing is powerful and true. I really enjoy whenever we get the opportunity to meeting up, playing tunes and renewing our friendship.” 

One of the significant milestones in Michael Flatley’s flute playing career was his performance at the Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy flute recital, a prestigious event that showcases the talents of traditional Irish musicians. His participation in this renowned gathering not only allowed him to share his flute playing with a wider audience but also provided him with valuable opportunities to learn from and collaborate with other accomplished musicians in the Irish music community. 

Michael’s ornamental and dexterous playing style bears the influences of renowned flute players such as Tansey and Molloy. Their intricate ornamentation and technical proficiency have left a lasting impression on Flatley’s playing, contributing to the distinctive and dynamic quality of his flute performances. Additionally, his approach to breathing and phrasing in his flute playing shows elements of Kevin Henry’s style, which he encountered during his formative years in Chicago’s vibrant Irish music scene. 

Through his interactions with these influential musicians and his experiences in both Chicago and Ireland, Michael Flatley has developed a unique and captivating flute playing style that reflects a blend of traditional Irish music elements and his own creative expression. His dedication to honing his craft and his deep appreciation for the rich musical heritage of Ireland have solidified his reputation as a skilled and versatile flute player in the world of traditional Irish music. 

Michael will feature in a Drawing from the Well documentary being made on Seamus Tansey presented by Eimear McGeown.