THE Newcastle Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCÉ) are brimming with pride after taking part in Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, where they performed for An Uachtarán na hÉireann, Catherine Connolly.
They were delighted to be part of history at the first ever Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast.
Eight members of the Comhaltas took part in the Fleadh competitions, while a group of 30 musicians – some of their youngest and most celebrated senior members, led by Newcastle CCÉ chairman Niall Murphy – performed on the main stage: the Gig Rig.
Niall, who himself is a talented musician and played with his branch all week, said: “It was a truly memorable event, and it was fantastic to see so many members involved in performances, competitions and street seisiúns.
“A huge thank you to Niall McClean, Ards CCÉ and Belfast City Council for putting on a fantastic showcase for the living tradition of Irish music. We are looking forward to when it comes back next year.”
The Gig Rig was the stage outside Belfast City Hall, and the organisers branded the stage as the beating heart of the festival.
Expressions of interest applications to perform on the Gig Rig went out last year and the Newcastle CCÉ’s application was successful.
“We were delighted to be granted a spot to showcase all of our musicians,” Newcastle CCÉ secretary Gemma Murphy said.
The Newcastle CCÉ’s Gig Rig set took place on Thursday morning. An Uachtarán na hÉireann, the President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, watched from the front row and honoured them with a photograph following the performance.
The Newcastle CCÉ’s musicians and dancers took part in various events across the city and competed in All-Ireland competitions over the weekend.
James Corsar earned third place in Under-12 whistle slow air. Terry Cowan earned second place in newly composed songs in English. Erin Maginn took third place in Over-18 duet. Jamie Rice competed in Over-18 whistle, Cian Maginn took part in the 15-18 harp event, Lorcán Howell performed in the 15-18 ceili band, while dancers James Walsh and Siobhan Houghton competed in the Over-18 mixed half set.
Newcastle Comhaltas is the longest and most established Comhaltas branch in County Down and has been running for almost 60 years.
