The final Portglenone CCE class of the year took place on Monday 3rd April. As usual a great number of pupils were in attendance to finish the year with a session.
Everyone was also very eager to hear who had won the prestigious awards from the recent 'Mini Fleadh' 2023. The trophies were presented by Portglenone CCE, Antrim and Ulster Chairman, Eamon Graham.
Congratulations to all the musicians who took part and made the first 'Mini Fleadh' and the last class of the year since Post-Covid very enjoyable for everyone especially the very nervous musicians who overcame their fears and played brilliantly.
The awards were as follows:
The 'Portglenone CCE Tin Whistle Cup' was presented to Erin Scullion.
The 'Fr Felix McLaughlin Fiddle Cup' was presented to Naoisha Kelly.
The 'Willie McCullough Shield' for Best Miscellaneous Instrument was presented to Niamh McErlean.
The 'Singing Trophy' and the Portglenone CCE Cup was presented to Aoife Kelly.
The 'Most Promising Musicians Award' and the Ballinasloe Trophy was presented to Aoife Kelly.
After the presentation of trophies, the young musicians and parents were treated to a few arrangements played by the Wednesday evening Junior Traditional Group which showcased the fine work being done every week in The Waterwall Bar with Harry, Shauna, Dympna and Kieran. The Traditional Singers also gave us a few renditions led by Mairead Walls which went down very well with the audience. A special mention goes to all our tutors who work so hard in promoting our musical heritage especially to our young tutors, Ava, Erin and Kate who also help out with the Beginner Session at 6.30pm every Wednesday evening in the Waterwall Bar.
Many thanks to Mrs Milner, Principal of St Mary's Primary School, for the use of the school's facilities over the year to hold the classes on Monday evenings and also to Noel and Donal for opening up etc. and looking after us! We look forward to their continued support next year!
Finally, We would like to wish all our musicians the very best of luck in the upcoming County Antrim Fleadh Cheoil being held in Cushendall 21st - 23rd April 2023.