Book Launch: Draíocht Ceoil by Geraldine Moorkens Byrne

Join Geraldine Moorkens Byrne to launch her new book Draíocht Ceoil The Sound of Magic in Irish Traditions.

Geraldine Moorkens Byrne is a poet, writer and educator from Dublin, Ireland. She has been published widely as both a poet and a writer of short stories, novels and articles. She teaches classes on Irish folklore and folk magic traditions, as well as Early Irish poetry. She is the author of a popular series of mystery novels under the name Nina Hayes. Her poetry collection, Dreams of Reality (publisher PPP Publishing) is now in its second edition.  

Draíocht Ceoil The Sound of Magic in Irish Traditions is her first non-fiction book with Moon Books UK and will be followed in 2027 with Celtic Christianity, part of Moon’s upcoming Popular History series.

“Discover an authentic and ancient Irish tradition of magical sound energy, and how to incorporate it into your life.

Within us all is the ability to hear the magic of sound, to use music and words to create a new reality. In Irish traditions this is known as Draíocht Ceoil – ‘music magic’ – an ancient art deeply rooted in Ireland’s mythology and culture, used for generations to harness the power of sound for connecting to natural magical energy. This is the first book of its kind to examine the tradition of Draíocht Ceoil, its ancient roots in the poetic tradition of Old Ireland, and its evolution into a vital part of Irish folk magic practices. From its early times, Irish society has elevated the roles of poet and musician to facilitators of magic, which has evolved into a rich tradition of both domestic and political magic, surviving throughout Ireland into the modern era, adapting to the needs of its generations. No musical or literary expertise is needed, only a love of sound and creativity, for Draíocht Ceoil to add depth to your magical practice. Its application to meditation and journeying will make it a perfect addition to your spiritual path.”

Released2026 LanguageEnglish PublisherMoon Books ISBN9781917704083

SellerSimon & Schuster (US) Easons Wholesale (IRL)

Reviews

Draíocht Ceoil is a fascinating deep dive into the power of speech and song, exploring historic and modern uses within Irish folk magic. A must-read book on a subject that can be foundational to magic – and life – yet is too often ignored. I recommend this for anyone who is interested in Irish magical practices or anyone who wants to learn more about the power within our voice and how to harness that intentionally.

Morgan Daimler, author of Morrigan, and Cath Maige Tuired: A Full English Translation

Draíocht Ceoil: The Sound of Magic in Irish Traditions is more than just a book. It is a
condensed expression of a legacy which Geraldine Byrne, through her exquisite writing, passes on to us – those passionate about Irish cultural heritage and magical traditions.

Daniela Simina, author of Where Fairies Meet, Pagan Portals

As both an Irish musician and practitioner of magic, I found Byrne’s ‘Draíocht Ceoil’ to be an essential read.
This seminal work explores the interwoven tapestry of Ireland’s music, tradition, landscape, language and culture, with comprehensive exercises to assist inexperienced and professional readers both in deepening their understanding of and connection to Ireland’s culture, and indeed her very soul.

Tara Tine, Diary of a Ditch Witch (musician and performance artist)

Moorkens Byrne draws out the unseen complexities of sound in our worlds and assists us in coming to new understandings, new abilities to navigate an intensely personal, deeply cultural relationship, allowing us to find a place for ourselves in the traditions and uniquely modern expressions of this pervasive magical energy.
If music, poetry, and the sounds in and beyond nature are important to you, Draíocht Ceoil can only strengthen and deepen their relevance. May it find its way to classrooms, libraries, and personal bookshelves throughout Ireland and beyond. There is much bounty to gather here.

Mael Brigde,  author of A Brigit of Ireland Devotional, Moon Books