A QUARTET of musicians whose work never fails to get critics reaching for superlatives comes to The Courtyard next week for one night.

"Hereford is immensely privileged to welcome a rare event, a quartet formed by some of the finest musicians in the Celtic tradition," says Rob Strawson, of Nightjar Music.

The event's rarity value is created by the coming together of two duos - harpist Máire Ní Chathasaigh and guitarist Chris Newman will be joined by virtuoso fiddler Nollaig Casey (Máire's younger sister) and legendary guitarist Arty McGlynn.

Fortunately for Hereford, their headlining appearance at Wimborne Folk Festival has enabled them to fit the city into their schedule.

"We used to play together a lot when we were younger," says Máire, who is credited with having single-handedly re-invented the harp. "It doesn't happen as often as we would like now, but we do always play on each other's recordings."

Chris and Máire (pictured) have been playing together professionally since 1988 after they met at a festival in Spain.

From gorgeous 17th century harp music, through jigs and reels to modern original material, Máire's achingly beautiful Irish harp plucks directly at the heart, while her voice is wonderfully clear, warm and expressive.

Máire's partner Chris's phenomenal technique on acoustic guitar, playing the most dazzling range of hot jazz, bluegrass and baroque, is matched by a charming line in amusing patter.

Arty and Nollaig are two of the most important names in Irish music. The four of them will be performing for Nightjar Music at The Courtyard on Friday, June 8, at 8pm, and tickets are available on 0870 1122330.