Harry Potter star Brendan Gleeson is embarking on a tour of his native Ireland in January (14) with his new folk band.

The veteran actor, who played Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody in the Potter films, is an accomplished fiddler and he's taking his music skills on the road next year as part of a Music Network initiative.

The Troy star will be joined by banjo player Dirk Powell, piper Michael MCGoldrick and guitarist Francis Gaffney for the January (14) concerts, which will be funded by the Arts Council.