Irish artist Barry Kerr has been named the first winner of the Folk Album of the Year Award for his 2025 record Curlew’s Cry. The announcement was made during a ceremony at Rochdale Town Hall on St Patrick’s Day.
The award was presented at an evening event attended by musicians, industry professionals and invited guests inside Rochdale Town Hall. Around 200 people were present for the ceremony, which formed part of Rochdale’s Greater Manchester Town of Culture celebrations.
Kerr, originally from County Armagh and now based in Connemara, was selected from nine shortlisted albums released across Britain and Ireland. His album Curlew’s Cry, released in October, was recognised for its songwriting and its grounding in traditional folk themes.
Accepting the award on stage, Kerr said: “I’m a bit lost for words. I’ve been at this game all my life, and I do it because music gets me through the ups and downs in life. When I made the record, I just wanted to sing about what I know and what I love. I want to thank my wife and kids. I’m so delighted, and it’s a real honour to be on a line up with such amazing people. Thank you so much.”
The ceremony featured live performances from most of the shortlisted artists, including Peggy Seeger, Grace Stewart Skinner, Joshua Burnside, Cynefin, Spafford Campbell, Gigspanner Big Band and Edith WeUtonga. Dublin trio Poor Creature appeared through a pre recorded video due to ill health.
Each act performed two songs from their nominated album, reflecting a wide range of folk traditions and contemporary interpretations from across Britain and Ireland.
Following the announcement, Kerr returned to the stage to perform an additional track to close the evening.
The winner was selected on the day by a jury of performers and media professionals, chaired by Kellie While, singer songwriter and executive producer of BBC Radio 2’s The Folk Show.
The award has been created by music charity Sound Roots and the Folk on Foot podcast, hosted by broadcaster Matthew Bannister. It is supported by Rochdale Development Agency as part of wider cultural activity taking place across the borough.
David Agnew, chief executive and artistic director of Sound Roots, said: “This award shines a spotlight on artists whose work deserves wider recognition for their incredible output. In folk and traditional music, albums are something to be cherished and celebrated, and tonight’s shortlist shows the extraordinary creativity across the scene today.”
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