Holly is a harper, composer, and teacher, who traces her roots back to Ballindine, a town in Co. Mayo, Ireland, renowned for its rich musical heritage. From a young age, Holly's heart was drawn to the captivating tunes of Irish traditional music. Guided by her mother Bernie Geraghty, she began her musical journey learning the concertina at the age of six. Her musical exploration also included an intrigue for other instruments, such as the piano, leading her to study under Rita Trench and Mary Benson. However, it was the enchanting world of the Irish harp that truly captured her soul and became her greatest passion.
Holly's infatuation with the enchanting sound of the Irish harp grew stronger with time. A snowy Christmas brought her a Larry Egar harp, marking the beginning of her harping adventure. Formal harp classes with Gráinne Hambly further honed her skills, shaping her into the artist she is today.
Immersed in the rich musical culture of her home and surroundings, Holly developed a unique musical style that caught the attention of Irish traditional music enthusiasts. Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann recognized her talent, and she embarked on tours across Britain, North America, and Canada.
Holly's pursuit of musical excellence extended to her academic endeavors. She graduated with First Class Honours in BMUS from University College Cork and went on to achieve First Class Honours in both her Graduate Diploma in Education ( Music) and Masters in Irish Traditional Music Performance at the esteemed University of Limerick. Moreover, Holly recently earned a First Class Honours Post Graduate Diploma in School Leadership, further enriching her educational achievements.
Throughout her journey, Holly has been the recipient of several prestigious awards, including:
- Sean O'Riada Memorial Prize
- Wesleyan Ethnomusicology Scholarship
- Doc Gleeson Award
- Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Scholarship. She has also claimed victory in several All Ireland competitions, showcasing her mastery of the harp and concertina.
In addition to her own success, Holly finds joy in sharing her knowledge with others. She has been a dedicated tutor at academic institutions and international festivals, nurturing the next generation of Irish traditional music enthusiasts.
Currently based in Co. Galway, Holly continues to mesmerize audiences with her soul-stirring melodies, keeping the timeless tradition of Irish music alive.