Fleadh Opening Concert
Saturday, May 21, 2011
The 36th Co. Antrim Fleadh in Portglenone was officially opened on Friday night at The Riverside Suite at The Wild Duck Inn by President of Comhaltas, Seamus McCormack. At the beginning of the concert, Seamus was asked if he wanted to declare the Fleadh officially opened, however, he stated that he "couldn't speak right now with the sight of over 110 young (and old) musicians on the stage ready to perform!" So it was up to the Co. Antrim Junior Traditional musicians to open the concert in colourful fashion. Some of the musicians on stage had only recently started playing their chosen instrument only a number of months previous to this eventful night!
The Young musicians performed a wide variety of melodies and tunes and were accompanied by Tutors from Portglenone CCE Branch and the other branches taking part. A wonderful start to a momentous occasion.
The McGowan Harp School then delighted the audience with a fantastic set of tunes and it was quite a sight with thirteen harpists lined up on the stage!!
Seamus McCormack then took to the stage after the young musicians had completed their fine set and he officially opened the 36th Fleadh Cheoil Aontroma and complimented the work done by Portglenone CCE and all the other Co. Antrim Comhaltas branches in their role of providing and sustaining traditional music in the Antrim area.
After the break, the newly formed Ulster Irish Traditioanl Youth Group entertained the large crowd in attendance with an incredible mix of tunes, song, dance and recitation. A real delight to hear and see the young musicians from all parts of Ulster perform together on such a wonderful stage.
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