Sean McCarthy was born in a town land called North Cregg just outside Fermoy in County Cork. He began playing the Uilleann Pipes at the age of eight under the tuition of a local Uilleann Piper named Rose OLeary and was subsequently influenced by musicians such as Paddy Keenan, Mick OBrien and Eoin ORiabhaigh. At the age of just 21 Sean has held the All Ireland Uilleann Pipes Title on several occasions as well as being a three in a row winner of the esteemed Oireachtas na Gaeilge.
Sean has performed as a Solo Artist at many concerts and festivals including the Uilleann Pipes Concert at "The Willie Clancy Festival" in Miltown Malbay, "The Lorient Interceltique Festival" in France, "The Beamish Folk Festival, in Cork as well as performing and teaching at several other music events throughout Europe and Ireland.
Sean is also a regular performer with Fergal O'Murchu's acclaimed Music and Dance Shows including Ragus, Celtic Legends and Celtic Dances with whom Sean has played all over the world. Having made several television and radio appearances in the past, in 2007 Sean was a featured musician on RTEs Bloom Of Youth. In 2009 he was also a featured guest on RTE's Reel Deal television programme along with some of Ireland's top musicians and groups.

In 2010 Sean toured Australia and New Zealand with well known Galway fiddle player Fergal Scahill. This tour included the duo headlining, the highly regarded Canterbury Folk Festival in New Zealand. Fergal feature's on this recording along with well known guitarist Conal Early.