25/05/2026
Meet the winners – North America
Every year, thousands of musicians across the world begin their journey in traditional music, building skills, confidence, and a lifelong love for traditional Irish music.
This week, we are shining a light on a talented musician whose dedication and passion led her to winning the 1D Fidil / Fiddle (O18) competition in Wexford last summer.
Orla O’Connor, originally from Fenit, Co. Kerry, Ireland, began her musical journey at just seven years of age, on the tin whistle before taking up the fiddle at nine. She was actively involved in Comhaltas in Kerry and is now a member of the Mícheál Ó Domhnaill Branch of Comhaltas in Oregon.
Orla has taken part in numerous Fleadh competitions, achieving success at the highest level – including a 2nd place in the All-Ireland U18 Fiddle competition in 2016.
Her commitment has seen her develop into a skilled and versatile musician. Alongside the fiddle, Orla also sings and plays guitar.
Now progressing into the next stage of her musical journey, Orla is sharing her knowledge through teaching, having completed some SCT (Scrúdú Ceol Tíre) examinations at a younger age. In addition to teaching fiddle, she also performs regularly, offering vocals, guitar, and fiddle for events and concerts, alongside her career in healthcare.
If you are interested in learning to play or getting involved in Irish traditional music, check out your local Comhaltas branch. To find classes and sessions in your area, visit: https://comhaltas.ie/ways-to-take-part/branch-map/