Connect with us

News

Talented young performers raise the roof

Published

on

Fuaimeanna Shliabh Luachra in action in the National Concert Hall.

E

EIGHT pals that joined forces through their love of music have been hitting all the right notes of late. Fuaimeanna Shliabh Luachra, which translates as Sounds of Sliabh Luachra, is a group of friends that came together with an interest in traditional music and singing.
The talented performers scooped second prize at the Siansa Gael Linn 2016 final in April, raising the roof of the National Concert Hall on Sunday, April 17. This week, television viewers got to see them in action on TG4 on Monday.
The group was chosen as one of the eight finalists from an initial entry of 50 groups in November last – a fantastic achievement for the musicians as it was their first time to have participated in this prestigious competition
Fuaimeanna Shliabh Luachra is mentored by Mary O’Connor. Four of the group are from Kilcummin (Niamh McSweeney, Aisling O'Connor, Dean Griffin and Steven O'Leary), two of the group are from Fossa (Seán Kelliher and Cian O'Sullivan), and two are from Currow (Eimear Horgan and Thomas Barrett). “It was a very satisfying result for the group who had to combine rehearsals with their study and particularly as three members are due to sit their Leaving Cert in a few weeks’ time,” said Mary. “Tributes must go to their trainers Conor Moriarty who arranged the music, and Roisin Ryan and Cathal Flood who also mentored the group. The group is also grateful for the support of their parents. Well done to Fuaimeanna Shliabh Luachra.”
The unique Siansa combination of competition and performance had kept a 1,000 audience enthralled during the evening while many more listened to the live broadcast on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, presented by Áine Hensey. Siansa Gael Linn challenges young musicians to be innovative and creative with traditional music and song, while at the same time appreciating the valuable heritage handed down to them. Another important element is that every aspect of the competition is organised through Irish.
Adjudicating at the final were renowned traditional musicians Dónal O’Connor, Declan Masterson and Killarney native Niamh Ní Charra, who were particularly impressed with the selection of music and song presented by the accomplished musicians and singers of Kilcummin. First prize went to the group ‘Círéib’ from Dublin, with ‘Gluaiseacht’ from West Cork coming in third place.
 


 
Pictured above, Fuaimeanna Shliabh Luachra in action in the National Concert Hall.

Advertisement

News

Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

Published

on

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

Continue Reading

News

Gleneagle Concert Band opens recruitment drive for new members

Published

on

By

The Gleneagle Concert Band is inviting new members of all ages to join the ensemble as it prepares for its new season starting this September.



Open to children, young people, and adults from Killarney and surrounding areas, the band offers specialist instrumental tuition starting from age nine. Beginners can take lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba, percussion, and drums before progressing into the main band.

No previous experience is required for adults or children. The band also welcomes adults who already play an instrument or wish to return to music after a break.

“What makes Gleneagle special is that our musicians don’t just rehearse in a room and play the occasional concert,” said Music Development Officer Vincent Condon. “They perform at major events, festivals and community occasions, take part in film productions, travel internationally and, importantly, have fun together as a band. The band is open to everyone. We welcome young people who want to learn an instrument, as well as adults who have previous musical experience and would like to return to playing.”

For information on registration and lessons, contact 087 222 9513 or visit the band’s social media pages.

Busy summer of events


The Gleneagle Concert Band has concluded a busy 12 months featuring public performances, festival appearances, and charity work.

Highlights included the annual summer street concerts in Killarney town, along with performances at Puck Fair, the Rose of Tralee, and the Summer in Killarney Festival. Band members were also involved in the filming of Jimmy, an upcoming Hollywood biographical drama based on actor Jimmy Stewart.

Community fundraising remained a focus over the past year, with the band supporting local causes including the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club and Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House alongside a sold-out Annual Concert.

Following a tour to Seville in 2025, the band has confirmed its next overseas trip to Bilbao and San Sebastián in northern Spain, scheduled for August 2027.

Continue Reading

Last News

Sport