Christmas and New Year Session 2011

30 December 2011

Portglenone Comhaltas Branch held a very successful Christmas and New Year Session in The Wild Duck Inn on Thursday 29th December. A large crowd was packed into the conservatory end from early on as the young musicians, along with the father and daughter outfit, Harry O'Neill and Danell Hughes, kicked off the Junior session with the assistance of Kieran Convery and Robert Close. The young musicians where joined by other junior musicians from Dunloy, Randalstown, Kilrea and other areas.

Congratulations to the ex-Chairmen of the Portglenone CCE Branch, Enda Clarke and Tony Convery, who both received the 'Grada' Award for their contribution and service to Portglenone CCE. Also, to Robert Close who received his 'Grada' Award for his services to Irish Traditional Music.

After the supper, the visiting musicians along with the local branch members and other local visitors began playing into the wee small hours with a vast array of tunes. Of course there were a few traditional and modern songs sung throughout the night by various artists, which added to the occasion.

Once again we would like to thank Ciaran Bradley and The Wild Duck Inn staff for the use of their premises for the session. Special thanks to our branch Chairman, Eamonn Graham, for being compere for the evening and encouraging all the musicians and singers to do the occasional solo piece. Most of all, we would like to thank all those who supported the session and participated in an evening of fine musicianship, especially those who travelled long distances.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the tutors and pupils for a successful first term of the 2011/20012 year at our classes on Monday nights. Special mention goes to the Principal of St. Mary's Primary School, Mrs B. Milner, for the use of the classrooms for these classes. Finally, a big thank you goes to the school caretaker, Brendan, who looks after the classrooms and opens and locks up every Monday night.

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