Tipperary Fleadh success for busy Powerstown/Lisronagh branch

Powerstown/Lisronagh branch of Comhaltas was well represented in the County Fleadh that took place in Ballycommon by competitors who made the journey to put to the test their dedication to traditional music playing, along with other like-minded individuals.

Whilst the element of competition is always there, so is the element of camaraderie and the sharing of tunes and experiences from different parts of the county. Indeed, it would appear that the evening sessions in The Thatch, after the day’s events were done and dusted, were the highlight of the weekend for many musicians and their families as they made and renewed friendships through their love of music, playing together for pure enjoyment.

Darragh Egan, who first came along to the branch with his brand new tin whistle at the tender age of 6 and has now won first place in Bosca Ceoil, 15-18 yrs, which qualifies him to a place in Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan in Tralee in July. One of Darragh’s pupils, Conor Hurley, also competed in the Bosca Ceoil, 12-15 yrs.

In the same age group, Cormac Walsh took part in the Bodhran class, taking 3rd place, whilst his tutor, Aaron Smullen, was himself competing in the over 18 Bodhran competition and was placed 2nd. Brothers Liam (bosca ceoil 12-15yrs) and Jack Kelly (bodhran U12) also represented our branch, with Jack winning his class which will see him join Darragh, Cormac and Aaron in Tralee. Darragh had a very busy weekend having entered the Melodeon class, in which he came 2nd, a Duet with Cian Fitzgerald from Cashel Branch and a Trio with Cian and Roise O’Reilly from Kilcash Branch.

The branch meets in Ss Peter and Paul’s School on Friday evenings and if anyone of any age, child or adult, is interested in traditional music tuition in all instruments (some of which are available to rent from the branch if you don’t want to commit to buying one in the first instance) or playing in music sessions, please contact Roisin on 086 859 6125.