by Dionne Meehan
WITH thousands travelling far and wide to compete in Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2023, Donegal competitors seemed to leave a lasting impression on this year’s judges.
For the second consecutive year, the All-Ireland competitions were held in the historic, cultural and very musical town of Mullingar.
The town was home to the first ever all-Ireland Fleadh in 1951.
It hosted again in 1963, 2022 and 2023.
Over the past nine days the streets have been overflowing with Irish music, dance and culture once more.
From storytelling to marching bands, piano accordions to uillean pipes, over 5,000 competitors from all over Ireland and overseas competed in a bid to win an All-Ireland title.
Last weekend proved to be historic for both Cloughaneely Junior and Senior Band, as they captured not one, but two coveted All Ireland Fleadh titles on the same day.
A feat accomplished only once before in this section’s long history, also by them in 2017.
The sheer magnitude of this dual victory cannot be overstated.
It speaks volumes about the band’s versatility, musicianship and the passion they pour into their craft.
The Cloich Cheann Fhaola Junior Band, whose victory in this year’s Fleadh marks their first since 2019, demonstrated remarkable growth and an unwavering commitment to their art.
Their performance resonated with audiences and judges alike, showcasing maturation in their musical journey that was nothing short of inspiring.
Their competition was St Kevin’s Marching Band from Wexford who put on an admirable performance to earn second place.
In the Senior Miscellaneous competition, the Cloich Cheann Fhaola Senior Band secured their first All-Ireland title since 2018.
This accomplishment reflects the band’s resilience and ability to evolve, maintaining their distinct sound while adapting to new influences and challenges.
The synergy among band members was palpable as they breathed life into each note, capturing the essence of Irish tradition with an innovative marching twist.
Their competitors were last year’s All-Ireland champions, Mullingar Town Band, who also put on an amazing performance.
The Maghery Band Academy’s Senior Fife and Drum Band gained their seventh consecutive All-Ireland title in Mullingar at the weekend.
The senior band, pictured in cream and green, returned to defend their title which was quite anticipated considering the competition.
The band travelled to Mullingar on Saturday and performed on the streets for Fleadh goers before returning to Cusack Park on Sunday to compete in the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann marching bands competition.
The members were commended for their dedication as they continued to perform their entertaining routine without even as much as a wipe of a brow.
The parade that followed the results saw the sun shine down on the All-Ireland Champions and their second place band Buoin Cheoil an Machaire.
Also walking away with first place titles were Donegal winners Karl Doherty, Shannan McKinley and Dearbhla Ní Dheorain.
Second place winners from Donegal included Cormac McColgan, Neil Kennedy and Dallan Davies.
Dr Labhrás Ó’Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir, Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann congratulated the winners.
“There was an incredible level of skill and talent from all contestants, as there is every year.
“Few people can say they are an all-Ireland winner, so all should be very proud of their amazing achievements,” he said.
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