Wicklow Fleadh celebrates all the people and places that keep the music alive
Family and friends from Comhaltas branches from across Wicklow and from around the country were present to celebrate not just the music, but all the people and places that keep it alive in the community.
The Fleadh followed a hugely successful series of warm-ups, which took place in libraries around Wicklow in the lead-in to the big day. The 'Road to The Fleadh Music Series', which were all free to the public, were performed by Comhaltas Bhré musicians of all ages who showcased their talents.
For those who were successful on Saturday, the next big event is the Leinster Fleadh, which will take place in July.
Bray Comhaltas Chairman Gabe Moynagh said the event this year was 'the largest Wicklow Fleadh to date' and remarked on the venue, in particular, which lent itself so superbly to the occasion.
"The school was a great venue, it's actually a brilliant venue for it,' he said. 'And the feedback from all the parents and competitors, tutors, adjudicators was really positive, so we're obviously very grateful for them. And, I think there were a lot of kids who were there for their first time, which was really great.
'I think there was a great energy off the day, and a lot of positive advice for anyone that is going on to Leinster from the adjudicators.'
The good news for the Bray Comhaltas is that both of the groups made it through to Leinster. The bad news, as Gabe added (and more so for the parents as much as the young musicians) is that 'there'll be lots more practice now to do'.
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