Portglenone CCE Christmas and New Year Session 2007

28 December 2007
Portglenone Comhaltas Branch held their annual Christmas and New Year Session in the local GAA hall on Friday, 28th December. A large crowd was in attendance from early on as the young musicians kicked off proceedings at 8.30pm under the guidance of Branch PRO, Kieran Convery. Once again credit goes to Secretary, Noreen Graham and Branch Treasurer, Geraldine Donnelly, who were very busy with the preparation of the supper which was served at 10pm. By this time the visiting musicians had arrived, some travelling long distances from the likes of Cushendall, Coalisland, Armagh, Letterkenny, Pomeroy, Derry City and Ballycastle which we are very grateful for doing so.
 
After the superb 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, both traditional and modern. Of course there were a few traditional and modern songs sung throughout the night by various artists which added to the occasion.
 
A special word of congratultions was awarded to Roisin McCloskey in recognition of achieving 1st Place in the Under 12 Feadóg Foinn Malla / Whistle Slow Air Competition at the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann Tullamore 2007. Chairman, Eamonn Graham, presented Roisin with a framed commeration for her achievements which was greeted with a rousing round of applause from the session goers. Roisin later played one of the pieces she had played at the All-Ireland Finals which was a real treat to the attentive audience.
Once again we would like to thank Roger Casements GAC and staff for the use of the Hall for the session. Also, thanks again to Geraldine and Noreen for a wonderful supper. 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 2007/2008 year at our classes on Monday nights. Also, many thanks to the parents who help out in any way with the supervision duties etc. Special mention to the Principal of St. Mary's Primary School, for the use of the classrooms and Assembly Hall for the classes. Finally, a big thank you to school caretaker, Brendan, who looks after the classrooms and opens and locks up every Monday night.

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