Black Syren | The Lyric Feature

Patricia Baker goes in search of the hidden history of a place behind a locked door in Dublin 8.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

'Wild' tells the story of Ireland's landscapes and its wildlife across past, present and future, exploring the ever changing relationship between people and nature through time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Dream of Foreign Lands commemorates the 40th anniversary of Rum Sodomy & The Lash, the groundbreaking album by The Pogues. Featuring exclusive contributions from James Fearnley and Jem Finer of the band, as well as Shane's sister Siobhan MacGowan, the programme delves into the album's enduring creative and cultural significance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ye Vagabonds Brían Mac Gloinn tells the story in word and song of the rescue of 18 Dutch sailors off Arranmore Island in December 1940. Written, presented and performed by Brían Mac Gloinn. Produced by Brían Mac Gloinn & Eoin O KellySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A story of music, leadership and resilience on Shackleton's Endurance Expedition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scottish poet Kenneth Steven presents Deirdre of the Sorrows, exploring this ancient tale that continues to inspire writers and musicians today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Presented by George Hamilton, this feature follows conductor David Brophy’s progress over his first six months with the WDR Rundfunk orchestra, on his new podium in Cologne. Observing the musical, cultural, and personal challenges this Irish conductor faces as he takes on one of the most prestigious positions in his field in Europe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weeks Lyric Feature is -Black Syren, which tells the largely forgotten story of Rachel Baptist, a Black Irish soprano, who predominantly appeared in Irish "pleasure gardens” in the 1750s and 1760s performing arias by Handel and Arne among others.The feature is presented by journalist Saibh Downes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derry-born composer Seán Doherty is best known for his choral compositions, but in this Lyric Feature, 1001 Gems, he goes back to his roots in Irish traditional music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ireland has white tailed sea eagles as well as golden eagles, both having been recently reintroduced. In this episode Anja Murray and Brían Mac Gloinn travel to Garinish Island in west Cork and also hear from National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Clare Heardman about the nesting and breeding habits of these wonderful birds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.