August Newsletter

August Newsletter

Comhaltas in Britain News | All-Ireland Fleadh

Events Coming Up | Our Stories

New Provincial Secretary Announcement

We’re delighted to welcome Wendy Doherty as the new Provincial Secretary (Rúnaí) for Comhaltas in Britain, following her appointment at our recent EGM. Wendy, a dedicated member since 2014, has led St James the Great CCE as Chair since 2019 and has previously served as Treasurer and Vice Chair. She brings a wealth of experience, positivity, and a deep love for the Comhaltas community.

Over the next month, Wendy will work closely with outgoing Secretary Patrick Ballantyne to ensure a smooth handover. She can be reached at: wendydoherty@comhaltas.co.uk

We also send our very best wishes to Patrick, who is stepping down to begin an exciting new chapter—travelling the world, starting with Sri Lanka this September! Thank you, Patrick, for your energy, dedication, and commitment. You’ll be greatly missed.

Patrick, a chara, go n-éirí an bóthar leat agus go raibh an ghaoth go brách ag do chúl go dtí go mbuailimid le chéile arís.

"May the road successful for you and may the wind be always at your back until we meet again."

Staffing Update

Comhaltas in Britain has recently adjusted its staffing structure from 2.5 to 2 full-time roles to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

We’re pleased to confirm that Paddy Callaghan continues as Operations Manager, overseeing the day-to-day running of the organisation.

We’re also delighted that Erin Watson has taken on a full-time role as Outreach & Development Community Project Officer, building on the great work she has done over the past year.

We wish Elske Simpson all the best as she moves on to a new role at Newcastle City Council, and thank her for her contribution to Comhaltas in Britain.

Jennifer Nolan Attends TTCT Course in Dublin

Last week, Jennifer Nolan, recipient of the 2025 Caroline Judge Fegan TTCT Scholarship, attended the TTCT teaching course at the Cultúrlann in Monkstown, Dublin.

She took part in workshops and lectures led by some of Ireland’s leading traditional musicians, including Steve Cooney.

The scholarship, awarded by Comhaltas in Britain, supports experienced teachers dedicated to passing on Irish traditional music. With over 35 years of teaching experience, Jennifer brings a deep commitment to the tradition.

Read more about her journey:
comhaltas.co.uk/post/jennifer-nolan-s-blog

All-Ireland Fleadh
Wexford
3rd - 10th August

Ceol Le Chéile – Upcoming Fleadh Performances

Ceol Le Chéile, our new youth trad orchestra, will perform at two events during this year’s All-Ireland Fleadh in Wexford:

International Showcase Concert

Wexford Opera House

Thursday, 7th August at 7:30 PM

Buy Tickets

The Gig Rig

St Iberius Church Car Park

Friday, 8th August at 3:50 PM

Please go along and support these talented young musicians!

Guinness World Record Attempt 2025 at the All-Ireland Fleadh
7th August

A new Guinness World Record attempt is set to take place during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 - aiming to form the largest Céilí Band ever to play together.

The 2025 attempt will take place at Chadwicks Wexford Park GAA Grounds, Y35 RT91, on Thursday, 7th August 2025.

If you’re interested in taking part, you can register via the official link below.

Winners’ Area

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

The Winners’ Area returns for Fleadh 2025 in Wexford. Solo, duet, and trio trophy winners will be honoured at Presentation Secondary School during scheduled ceremonies:

Friday, 8th August: 7:00 PM
Saturday, 9th August: 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM
Sunday, 10th August: 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM

Trophies for Grúpaí Ceoil, Céilí Bands, and Dancing will be presented at their competition venues.

If you can't attend a ceremony, trophies can be collected during office hours over the weekend.

Nottingham Comhaltas 50th Anniversary Céilí
Saturday 20th September

Join the celebration of Nottingham Comhaltas' 50th anniversary with an evening of music, dance, and fun on Saturday, 20th September.

The event will feature a céilí with live music from the Liverpool Céilí Band, along with a buffet meal. All are welcome to mark five decades of sharing Irish traditional music in Nottingham.

Tickets

Pre-TTCT
Sunday 21st September

Comhaltas is offering a one-day online Preparatory Teaching Course for aspiring music teachers aged 16+. It’s a great opportunity to explore and develop your teaching skills, whether you're starting out or looking to refresh existing experience. This course bridges the gap between SCT and TTCT, with no previous teaching experience required. Cost: €50.

Perfect for anyone interested in passing on our musical traditions!

Find Out More

Gradam na hÉigse Awards

As one of this year’s Gradam na hÉigse recipients, Julie O’Hare shares her inspiring Comhaltas journey – from learning traditional music as a child to teaching and mentoring new generations across Britain.

Read Julie’s Story

Meet Caitlín Mannion – Ceol Le Chéile Musician

Caitlín Mannion, a multi-instrumentalist from the North London CCÉ Branch, is one of the talented young musicians in our new youth trad orchestra, Ceol Le Chéile. A passionate performer and dedicated teacher, Caitlín shares her journey through Comhaltas in Britain and her love for Irish traditional music.

Read Caitlín’s Story

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Comhaltas in Britain
Liverpool Irish Centre
6 Boundary Ln
Liverpool
L6 5JG
United Kingdom
info@comhaltas.co.uk
Register charity in England and Wales 1185729

Registered charity in Scotland SC053265