Peadar Ó Riada was an Irish composer, conductor, and accordionist who played a pivotal role in the revival of traditional Irish music in the mid-20th century. Born in Cork in 1939, Ó Riada's passion for music began at a young age. He studied classical music at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and later became a member of the RTÉ Symphony Orchestra. However, it was his love for traditional Irish music that truly ignited his creative spark.

In the 1960s, Ó Riada founded the groundbreaking group Ceoltóirí Chualann, which became renowned for its innovative arrangements of traditional tunes. He also composed numerous works for orchestra and traditional ensembles, blending elements of classical and folk music to create a unique and captivating sound. Ó Riada's legacy continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike, and his contributions to Irish music are widely celebrated.