Christmas and New Year Session 2005

29 December 2005
On Thursday, 29th December, Portglenone Comhaltas Branch held their annual Christmas and New Year Session in the local GAA hall. A large crowd was in attendance from early on as the young musicians kicked off proceedings at 8.30pm under the guidance of Grainne Magill, Emer Graham and Kieran Convery. A large repertoire of tunes was played which the young students have been learning at the Comhaltas classes on Monday evenings. As they played to a gathering audience, behind the scenes the branch Treasurer, Geraldine Donnelly, and Assistant PRO, Roisin Convery, were busying themselves with the preparation of the supper which was served at 10pm. By this time most of the visiting musicians had arrived, some travelling long distances from the likes of Derry City, Pomeroy, Ballycastle and Coalisland which we are very grateful for doing on such a cold and frosty night.
 
After the fine 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, particularly that of young Sarah Louise McPeake whose rendition of "There Were Roses" warranted a huge applause early on in the evening.
 
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 Roisin for a wonderful supper and also to Maura Cushnahan, Noreen Graham and Kate Magill who helped serve. Thanks to Grainne Magill and Emer Graham for selling the tickets for the draw and to our Vice-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.

View Gallery