This Irish language feature documentary examines the quicksilver nature of the Belfast harpist, experimental composer and sound engineer Úna Monaghan and her innovative and genre-traversing work in music and art.

Úna has spent a lifetime steering the course between science and art, examining the often taboo intersections between Irish traditional music, experimental music, improvisation and interactive technologies. Influenced by the work of John Cage, Úna has made the form her own, a lack of artistic inhibitions pervading her work and allowing her to push beyond boundaries and achieve new innovation combining artistic forms.

Undertaking one of her most ambitious projects to date – Aonaracht, a six part suite for six solo musicians – Úna must now convince other top traditional musicians of the merits of the art form she is pioneering, to record an album of solo performances with electronics - all while embarking on another new project: motherhood.

The multiple meanings of Aonaracht (singularity, solitude), are layered throughout the documentary: in the solo pieces Úna composes for her artists; in the laser-focus she brings to her compositions; in the post-Covid world during which all of us experienced some new form of solitude and isolation. 

Featuring contributions from some of the finest traditional musicians in Ireland, including Pauline Scanlon, Paddy Glackin, Iarla Ó Lionáird, Jack Talty, Saileog Ní Cheannabháin and Tiarnán Ó Duinnchinn, Aonaracht examines the process of making an album from conception to completion, through the challenges, self-doubt and life changes along the way, seeking to find out what lies at the heart of artistic drive.

Aonaracht offers a no holds barred opportunity to see one of Ireland’s most exciting talents at work, and to examine the conflict between parenthood and artistic expression.

For more information https://corkfilmfest.org/events/singularity-aonaracht-651c582c80d86a02c086f99f/