O Raghallaigh traditional music family honoured by Comhaltas

The Fidléir agus Consairtín na Mí competitions took place at Dunsany GAA recently. Thanks to the continued dedication of students, teachers and parents, a number of competitors entered the competition and a very enjoyable afternoon of concertina and fiddle music followed. This competition has been running for over 40 years with only a break due to Covid over recent years.

The winners were: Fidil Faoi 12: Ríona Ní Chormaic, Fidil 12-15: Katie Veale, Fidil 15-18: Cormac O Slatara, Fidil Thar 18: Liam O Raghallaigh, Consairtín Faoi 11: Bríd Áine Ní Ghrádaigh, Consairtín 12-15: Áine Mac Namara, Consairtín Faoi 18: Aedín Ní Dhurcáin.

The afternoon concluded with the award of the ‘O Ghlúin go Gluain’ trophy by Antóin Mac Gabhann on behalf of Trim Comhaltas to Máire and Padraic O Raghallaigh of Rathmolyon. Máire and Pádraic have been to the forefront of the preservation, development and teaching of the Irish language, traditional Irish singing and music in Meath for over 60 years. Both were involved in the founding of Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann in Trim, the first branch in Co Meath in 1968. For almost 60 years they have laid down the seeds of love and appreciation for the Irish language, traditional music and song for the children of Co Meath. The fruits of their work is evident across three generations of musicians both their own children and grandchildren and so many other Meath musicians and singers. In recognition of their contribution to the passing of the traditions from one generation to the next, Trim Comhaltas bestowed on them this award at the recent Fidléir na Mí Competition in Dunsany. They are pictured with three generations of the family all of whom are accomplished musicians, singers and teachers who are now following in Máire and Pádraic’s footsteps.