Marketa Irglova is a Czech singer-songwriter and musician, best known for her collaboration with Glen Hansard in the folk-rock duo The Swell Season. She gained international recognition after winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008 for "Falling Slowly," featured in the film Once. Born on February 28, 1988, in Zlin, Czech Republic, Irglova began playing music at a young age. She has released several solo albums and continues to perform, showcasing her unique voice and songwriting talent. Her work often blends elements of folk, pop, and classical music.