EMER DUNNE AND BAND

Emer Dunne is an Irish folk singer, musician and performer from Mountmellick, County Laois, Ireland. Emer returns to the US with her captivating show, The Folk Songbook, a rich and engaging show blending lively up-tempo favourites with heartfelt ballads and a touch of contemporary surprise!

Emer is known for her powerful vocals, her warm and entertaining stage presence, and natural storytelling ability. Joined by her talented musicians Eamonn Moran on guitar and Shane Meehan on fiddle, the show features a rich and dynamic live sound. Emer is fast becoming a compelling voice in Irish folk music. This is a show not to be missed!

‘An entertainer through and through’ Hot Press

‘A stunning voice …’ RTE Television

‘There is a purity and strength in her voice ….’ Irish Music Magazine

Supported by Culture Ireland and Creative Ireland Laois

Early life & background

Dunne grew up on a farm in Laois, where her love of music began at a young age, she was always outdoors & was even famously singing to cows as a child. Emer performed in various shows, productions and competitions. At the tender age of ten she was chosen to sing and champion Irish dance at the Celtic Ball in Rome for the Irish Ambassador and delegates.

Emer comes from a family with musical roots and spent time in Leitrim learning traditional songs from her grandfather who was also a singer and musician.

Career highlights

Began performing early, including singing at the Celtic Ball in Rome at age 10 and toured across Europe and Japan as a solo singer and champion dancer with a song and dance troupe.

Trained in voice with renowned teacher Dr. Veronica Dunne at the Leinster School of Music & Drama.

Released her debut folk album “Hourglass”, which reached No. 1 on the Irish charts.

Has scored multiple No. 1 singles in Ireland.

Performed alongside major Irish acts like The Fureys, The High Kings, Phil Coulter, and The Irish Tenors.

Toured internationally across Europe, Japan, and the United States, including a successful East Coast U.S. tour.

Style & reputation

Emer Dunne’s music blends Irish folk, ballads, acoustic, and even classical influences. She is widely praised for having,

“one of the clearest voices on the current Irish music scene” Review from Germany

and known as a captivating live performance style with audience interaction and storytelling

Her voice has been compared to artists like Mary Black and Maura O’Connell.

Notable achievements

Winner of All-Ireland singing titles and various national talent competitions

Commended by Leonard Cohen’s management for her rendition of “Hallelujah”

Featured on Irish TV and radio, including RTÉ’s Today Show

Recent activity

Completed her first U.S. tour (2025) across several states

Selected to represent Laois and Ireland at the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade (2026)