Ceilí House in Loughrea

RTÉ Radio 1 came to Lough Rea Hotel in order to record a special programme which highlighted the best of local talent of traditional musicians in the Loughrea area.
The legacies of Paddy Carty, Vincent and Peter Broderick, were very much to the fore with a wide selection of musicians gathered to suit every traditional taste. The various traditional music schools as well as the upcoming ‘Féile Raifteirí’ and Patsy Tuohy Pipers’ Festival were given special mention.
More than 200 people came along to attend be part of the audience during this ‘one-off’ concert which proved to a great musical treat. Entertaining for the afternoon, a number of different singers and groups gathered including the extended Broderick Family and friends, Comhaltas Bhaile Locha Riach, Cláirsigh Chonnachta and Banna Ceoil Ghaelscoil Riabhach.
Solo pieces were performed by local harpist Úna Ní Fhlannagáin and piper Seán Mac Tiarnáin. Seán Mac Tiarnáin also described how he came about Patsy Tuohy’s pipes who was born outside Loughrea 1865 and became internationally renowned as a piper.
This Ceilí House programme is due to be broadcast all over the globe on RTÉ Radio 1 on Saturday 20 March.

Féile Raifteirí ’10 ag teacht.

February 2010

 ‘Féile Raifteirí’ was recently launched in Coole Park, Gort Inse Guaire and will be celebrated over the weekend 26-28 March with particular emphasis on the various traits of Raifteirí as a Gael, a poet, a singer and musician.

Preparations are are already taking place as a number of schools and youth clubs have already began rehearsing with Irish language Drama company, Branar. A number of schools are also taking the opportunity to avail of Irish language singing workshops also. The result of this work will be certainly one of the highlights of the festival as they take to the stage as part of ‘Ceolchoirm na n-Óg’ in the Lough Rea Hotel on Saturday afternoon 27 March.

The festival will officailly open with a music, singing and poetry session under the theme ‘Raifteirí... fear conspóideach’
A great festival concert featuring a host of musicians, singers, poets and dancers including: Joe Burke, Ann Conroy-Burke, Charlie Piggott, Marian McCarthy, Manus Maguire, Denis Carey, Catherine Mannion, Úna Ní Fhlannagáin, Seosamh Ó Neachtain, Tommy Healy, Muireann Ní Dhuigneáin, Philip Cummings and Simon Ó Faoláin.
Other special guests taking part in activities over the weekend include Nóirín Ní Ghrádaigh, Verena Commins, Paul Bradley, Seán Ó Flannagáin, Colette Nic Aodha, Maidhc Ó hÉanaigh and Úna Nic Lochlainn.

Coiste Fhéile Raifteirí are very proud that such a packed program has been produced for this years festival due to the support of their sponsors which helped so much to bring Féile Raifteirí back for 2010:
The Arts Council, Foras na Gaeilge, Lough Rea Hotel & Spa, Coiste Gairmoideachais Chontae na Gaillimhe, Comhairle Chontae na Gaillimhe, Comhar Creidmheasa Naomh Breandáin, Sunrise Health Store, John Collins Accounting, Il Porcetto, Baffle, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Keary Auctioneering, Gaeilge Locha Riach and Cairde Raifteirí.

Irish Storytelling Evening

February 2010

Folklore, historic, religious, personal and humorous stories were recalled during the Oíche Scéalaíochta organised by Gaeilge Locha Riach in the Italian Restaurant, Il Porcetto recently.
The circle of storytellers will gathered and spent the night telling and listening to various stories.
The storytelling night was helped along and guided by actor and author Diarmuid De Faoite. Everybody was given the chance to tell a story or two ‘as gaeilge’, and indeed each storyteller was given the proper authority of the blackthorn… insuring the right to speak and be listened to!
‘Is túisce deoch ná scéal’(Drink often comes before a story).. or so we are told, and a wide range of food and refreshments were provided. This seanfhocal certainly proved to be true and another one also came to mind ….‘Tarraingíonn scéal scéal eile’ (One story leads to another).
The company had a great night of storytelling and it seems that plans are under way… thinking of the next night and the stories to be told.

Oíche Fhéile Bríde

February 2010

A nice crowd gathered to celebrate and commemorate the heritage of Bríd on the eve of Bríd’s feast day.
Both young and old folk gathered at Bríd’s well in Garraí Bhríde in the town, where they sang songs in honour of Bríd, ‘Gabhaim Molta Bríde’ and ‘Anois Teachta an Earraigh’ since ‘Lá Fhéile Bríde’ in mentioned in the song.
A small band of young local musicians played a number of tunes by the well and it is believed they even had time for the odd prayer. Afterwards, people gathered in O’Deas’ Hotel for a cup of tea and discussion on the heritage, folklore, miracles, cures, and prophecies of Bríd and the various other customs connected to the feastday.

CD ‘Ár Seans’ Launched!

January 2010

A brand new CD was recently launched in Athenry as a result of an Irish language initiative in organizing a talent competition ‘Do Sheans ar CD’ for primary and secondary schools throughout East Galway.
As part of a yearly campaign to promote the Irish language, County Galway VEC, Galway County Council and Gaeilge Locha Riach came together to organize this competition in 2009.
Pupils from first and secondary level schools were invited to take part in this new competition under two catagories; Newly composed or Traditional in a new style.
13 tracks in total were selected for professional recording and the best of the entrants were recorded at Shay’s Studio for the CD. In total, there are 5 Secondary Schools and 6 National Schools to be heard on the CD.
Seosamh Mac Donncha, CEO of County Galway VEC, launched this newly recorded Cd at a special concert that was held in Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry at the end of January. Coun. Tom McHugh, Mayor of County Galway was also in attendence.
It was a great concert that had an attendence of more than 400 people and a fine choice of the winning entrants to be heard and seen live on stage. Máire Treasa Ní Dhubhghaill from PONC, TG4 was ‘Bean a’ Tí’ for the evening.
Each group succeeding in having a recording on the CD were presented with certificates and a parcel of CDs. The winners of each catogory were also announced:
Traditional in New Style
National School-    ‘An bhfaca tú mo Shéamaisín?’  ...Rang 2, Scoil Íde Naofa, Baile Locha Riach.
Secondary School- ‘Trasna na dTonnta’  ....‘Na Sicíní Rac’, Coláiste na Toirbhirte, Baile Átha an Rí.
Newly Composed
National School -   ‘Creachmhaoil’ ... ‘Ómós’, Scoil Náisiúnta Chreachmhaoile.
Secondary School- ‘Ní Fiú’ ....‘Sásta Sásta’, Coláiste an Eachréidh, Baile Átha an Rí.

T-shirts, CD’s, certificates and special awards were presented to the winners in the above catagories.
It must be said that there was quite a bit oif excitment in the air as
Máire Treasa Ní Dhubhghaill announced the overall winner of the competition.
Overall Winner:        ‘Mo Ghile Mear’ by ‘NA TADA DADA FAICS’, Ardscoil Mhuire, Béal Átha na Slua.
As well as T-shirts, CD’s, certificates and a special award for the overall winner, ‘NA Tada Dada Faics’ from Ardscoil Mhuire were presented with a token worth € 500 of studio/recording time.
 The winners have already appeared on PONC TG4 and other winners are due to appear on the same programme in the coming weeks. Many of the tracks should be heard on RTÉ RnaG and other radio stations.
Copies of the CD are available from Gaeilge Locha Riach for a donation of € 5.
  091 870718 / prua@lochariach.com

Gradaim Locha Riach 2009

December 2009

A great night of celebration was held in Loughrea recently as Gaeilge Locha Riach hosted it’s annual award ceremony. About 120 people from all over East Galway attended the celebration of Irish language culture in Loughrea when Pat Hynes, Mayor of Baile Locha Riach presented Gradaim an Phobail 2009.
A wide range of community groups were recognized for their efforts in promoting the language as well as the presentation of Gradaim speisialta which recognize particular groups in Órán Mór, Baile Átha an Rí, Gort Inse Guaire, Baile Locha Riach agus Béal Átha na Slua. In total more than 40 community groups were congratulated for their achievements in 2009.
Of course there was a lot more taking place apart from the presentation of awards. Siobhán Seoighe, manager of RITH 2010 gave an outline of the grand project taking place in the coming months; www.rith.ie

As part of the evening’s entertainment also, Diarmuid De Faoite returned to the stage to perform a selection from his book of Padraic Ó Conaire’s work.
Quite a bit of interest had been expressed in the grand prize of €500 to the winning team taking part in the competitive Tráth na gCeist/Table Quiz. To give everyone an equal chance, questions were asked both in Gaeilge and in English. With such a prize at stake, the questions were difficult enough for everyone... If they were easy, everybody would win! Unfortunately, not everyone could win € 500 with quite a few dissappointed and only one team returning home happy winners. In fact, they decided share their victory and give a share of their winnings to charity by donating €100 to St. Vincent de Paul.

A New Era heralded with Irish Language Survey in Loughrea

November 2009

Galway County Council, Gaeilge Locha Riach in co-operation with Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge officially launched the Results of the Loughrea Language Survey Project by Mait Ó Brádaigh in the Lough Rea Hotel recently.
This in-depth survey on ‘Ability in and Use of the Irish Language in Loughrea’ was conducted in May and June in the Loughrea Urban and Rural Electoral Districts. The results of this survey were eagerly awaited by the entire community.
With over 80% stated to be in favour of the language, resounding support is given in the survey results to an Irish language plan for Loughrea, staffing and appropriate assistance, including a building. Based on the positive attitude to the language the survey also recommends that the Irish Language Planning Process for Loughrea begin in 2010 and that it be considered as a possible pilot case for the development of progressive Irish language planning.
The survey recommends that Irish Language Planning at community level be holistic with maximum participation and ownership of the process with organizations, state, private, business and voluntary.
Emphasis is placed upon the importance of the education system has been in teaching Irish and suggests that a new phase of planning will have to have community support channeled to help all schools.
It is recommended that younger speakers be cared for by the creation of ‘language sanctuaries’ in order that they acquire Irish in a secure linguistic environment and that they remain using the language in the long-term and continue to acquire informal interpersonal skills in the language that will allow them to carry on conversations with any Irish speaker.
Galway County Council funded this stategic Irish language plan and printing of the survey was suported by Foras na Gaeilge.
Mayor of Loughrea, Councillor Pat Hynes launched the survey which was followed by an open debate chaired by Gearóid Mac Donncha, RTÉ RnaG. On the panel of speakers was Mait Ó Brádaigh, survey author, Seosamh Mac Donncha, CEO Co. Galway VEC and Conchúr Ó Giollagáin, Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge.

Glór na nGael in Loughrea

November 2009

The results of the national Glór na nGael competition will be aired on Seán Bán Breathnach’s programme on Raidió na Gaeltachta Friday 29th January between 2.00 and 3.00 p.m.
The adjudicators of the national Glór na nGael competition were given an official welcome to the town as representatives of the local authorities came together to support local Irish language achievements.
Chains of office were brought togther in support of the local Glór na nGael committee; Councillor Pat Hynes, Mayor of Loughrea, Maureen Shea, Chairperson of the Loughrea Chamber of Commerce and Pat Lawless, Chairperson of Naomh Breandán Credit Union.
Mayor Pat Hynes said that people were particularly proud of the work being done by the local Glór na nGael committee and that local people will be keen to see if their Irish language achievements will be recognized in this national competition.

Baffle le Gaeilge arís

October '09

Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to congratulate the Baffle Committtee for showing it’s commitment to the Irish language with the organizing of it’s 13th liteary festival in Loughrea. With the support of Foras na Gaeilge and County Galway VEC, the Irish language elements were very much to the fore again.
Caoimhe Ní Chonchoille, Nuacht RTÉ & TG4, officially opened the festival and presented prizes to the young Bafflers.
The committee organized a number of competitions for national and secondary schools. There was great interest in the poetry competition for national with almost 100 entrants. For second level students, a questionaire based on the website of Baffle along with a ‘Bebo’ competition attracted quite a bit of interest also.
The theme for the main poetry competition was based upon Michael Farrell, a famous boxer who was born in Loughrea back in the 19th century. People came from all over the country to take part in the competition. Of course, poems in both English and Gaeilge were put forward. Michael Coy from Craughwell produced a great poem ‘as Gaeilge’ that was among the finalists... this was inspired while he lay on a hospital bed... Yeah.... he may have been lying in the gutter but he was dreaming of the stars!
Gearóidín Bhreathnach, from Donegal, was among the special guests of the weekend and took part in a special concert as part of the festival finale. Gearóidín Breathnach is a well Known sean-nós singer and storyteller. She displayed both these talents singing
Na Buachaillí Álainn, An Mhaighdean Mhara, An Baitsiléir and Buachaill ón Éirne. Of course the whole hall was heard to sing along and everyone enjoyed the stories behind the songs.
Siún Uí Dhomhnaill from the Baffle committee said that they were very pleased with the Gaeilge events and thanked Foras na Gaeilge and County Galway VEC particularly for their support.

Seó na Samhna ‘09.

October '09

For the second year in a row, Gaelscoil Riabhach community filled the Temperence Hall with about 500 peole as the came together for ‘Seó na Samhna’. This is a clebration to herald the coming of another Celtic new year and it was clear that the entire school community were involved.
Certainly, a lot of preparation work was done for a number of weeks, not only involving teachers and students but many parents also.
It must be said that this hard work and preparation paid off as the show was of the highest standard as everyone put in their best effort to provide the best of entertainment from Naíonáin Bheaga to Rang 6. Not one pupil was a victim of stage fright!
Opening the evening, Cór na Naíonáin ... the infant choir were very musical and were heard throughout the hall. Múinteoir Marcas and Áine’s classes also provided a selection of lively songs ‘as Gaeilge’ and recited a number of poems. Also, Rang 5 put on a powerful display of sean-nós and brush dancing.
There were also a number of plays performed ... both in English and ‘as Gaeilge’.... ‘The Moles and the Harvest Moon’ by Rang 2 and ‘Cás Stoney Brennan’ with Rang 6.
‘Ceoltóirí Riabhacha’, the school band played a number of tunes ....providing a suitable climax to the evening’s entertainment with a great selection of music and song.
Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to congratulate the entire school community that made this show possible as everyone involved should be proud of their achievements as it was clear that everyone really enjoyed each and every performance.

Foras Pátrúnachta

October '09

Delegates from Gaelscoils throughout Ireland came to Loughrea 9-10 October for the National Conference and AGM of the Foras Pátrúnachta...Patron Body for Irish Medium Schools.
The national conference came to Loughrea as Gaelscoil Riabhach celebrates it’s tenth year in existence. The local Gaelscoils under the patronage of Foras Pátrúnachta organized this event with representatives from Baile Locha Riach, Tuaim, Gort Inse Guaire and Baile Átha an Rí on the local committee.
Ministir Éamonn Ó Cuív T.D. officially opened the conference with Pat Hynes, Mayor Bhaile Locha Riach and other local politicians present.
Teachers, principals, representatives from Boards of Management, parents and school pupils attended this special event.
A unique concert was performed for this occasion with Cór na Naíonáin and Ceoltóirí Riabhacha from Gaelscoil Riabhach providing the entertainment for the company.
Most of the work was done during the workshops discussing issues such as learning support, building developments, parents’ involvement, the role of the patron, the Gaelscoil vision and a lot more. It must be said that the local committee were very proud that they were able to attract such a national conference to the town and organize it so effectively.
Pól Mag Lionáin, Principal of Gaelscoil Riabhach said:
“It was a great honour for the Gaels of Loughrea to help organize two national events in the town this year; Féile Náisiúnta Drámaíochta and Comhdháil Náisiúnta Fhoras Pátrúnachta... It is clear that the town is very much renowned among Gaels throughout the country as a town that very much welcomes and is very supportive of the Irish language.”

Celebrating Good Results

October 2009

A great crowd gathered recently to celebrate the results of an Irish Language survey completed in Loughrea.
Mait Ó Brádaigh gave a very effective insight into the intense survey that he has just completed. This survey was done in conjunction with the Irish Language Planning Course in Acadamh na hOllscoile (NUIG), An Ceathrú Rua and Galway County Council. It is clear from the results that there is quite a lot of support for Irish Language initiatives, which gives the local Gaels great encouragement in their work.
These results will be published in full along with CD including all material dealing with the research. This will be officially launched on 24 November. At this point, it will be seen what affect this will have on plans for Loughrea.
This was really an occasion of celebration that Coiste Ghlór na nGael and Gaeilge Locha Riach organized with sponsorship from Foras na Gaeilge. Local scholars from Gaelscoil Riabhach provided much of the music, song and dance at the start of the evening. It must be said that the highlight of the evening was the special concert performed by John Spillane. The two-time winner of the meteor award in the best folk/trad category, John Spillane gave a mix of melodic tunes, entertaining stories and there was great demand for some of the hits from ‘Irish songs we learned at school’.
Indeed… he had the whole hall singing along ‘as Gaeilge’…agus mar a deirtear: “Níor chaill sé riamh é!”

History and Heritage of the parish
Aille and Killnadeema, Loughrea

October 2009

This book was recently published with the support of Foras na Gaeilge. Articles include history, culture, music, heritage, customs, geneology, stories of placenames, folklore, archaeology and the Irish language in the parish. There is a special chapter devoted to the Irish language. One study discusses the Irish language in regards to the census of 1901. A study on the meaning of placenames, Irish language words still in use, Irish words that describe various types of people and some of the folklore collected in Irish in the area. Included also is a number of interviews with some charachters from the parish and interesting articles on the Night of the Big Wind and on the Famine.
As well as the above, there are old articles republished that the local branch of Conradh na Gaeilge first published during World War II. Not only that but there are interesting articles by Ciaran Ó Coigligh, Pádraig Ó Luanaigh, Máirtín Ó Fathaigh and Séamus Ó Grádaigh.
This book is the product of three years work put together by a diligent committee that has worked hard in it’s research since it began in August 2006. With almost 700 pages between the covers, Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to congratulate all of those connected to the project.
                              

... Nature by Name!

October '09

Gaeilge Locha Riach and Elaine O’Ríordáin, Co. Galway Biodiversity Officer  recently organized a series of talks/lectures for the general public of East Galway on placenames. Special thanks to GRD for funding these presentations.
As it happens, Tamás Peterváry, archaelogist, gave an insight into the placenames of the area with a particular emphasis on the names that are derived from nature. He presented the topic in recent visits to St. Ita’s National School, St. Brendan’s Boys’ School, Gaelscoil Riabhach, St. Brendan’s Home and Naomh Breandán Credit Union, Loughrea.
The main aim of these talks was to create an understanding of placenames and to give local people the opportunity to get to know the nature of their own area that little bit better.
The powerpoint presentation was divided under various natural themes; e.g. plants / insects / animals etc. 
These presentations encouraged further discussion on the understanding of placenames and on the origin and folklore of these names. Also further interest in the meanings of placenames was created and the use of the Gaeilge version of the townlands was very much encouraged.

Diversity of Life

September '09

The students of Gaelscoil Riabhach, Loughrea, took advantage of the good weather recently organising a class at the lakeside. Seán Ó Flannagáin, environmentalist, visited the school in order to conduct a workshop in biodiversity. The pupils had the opportunity to learn about the wide range of life forms that depend on the lough including plants, insects, animals, birds and fish.
The pupils knowledge of the biodiversity of the lough was greatly improved as a result of Seán Ó Flannagáin’s visit. It seems the students have a new found respect for the lough and even understand the significance of the insects.
Also a walk in Moyode woods outside of Craughwell was organised on Saturday 19th September. Seán Ó Flannagáin was out again to give a guided talk ‘as Gaeilge’ through the forest. Families were given a special welcome as they were guided through the wealth of nature during the afternoon stroll. The gathering learnt quite a lot about all things bright and beautiful from the smallest to the biggest, from the forest floor to the tops of the trees.
These events were organized by Gaeilge Locha Riach in co-operation with Elaine O’Ríordáin, the Biodiversity officer af Galway County Council and funded by GRD. It is understood that further events and studies are to be organized as a result of these excusions.

Importance of our Heritage.

August '09

The were plenty of events organized nationally as part of Heritage Week and East Galway was no exception. Gaeilge Locha Riach co-operated with Naomh Breandan Credit Union in organising a few events in the area.
A Heritage Evening was organized that focused on celebrating the heritage of the lake. Guest speakers discussed topics covering environmental, historical and cultural matters. Dr. Janice Fuller gave a great presentation on the biodiversity of the lough outlining the various animals, fish, trees, plants and insects that depend on the liveforce of the lough. Kevin McDonald, local archaelogist, gave an outline of archaelogical developments of Ireland with a particular note to thecrannógs of the lake.
A Mountain Walk & Treasure Hunt was organized for the Slieve Aughty area in Kylebrack Woods on Sunday 30 August. Dermot Moran, local historian, guided the walk through the woods with a particular emphasis to the rich environment. Of course, it was important to listen as the answers to many of the questions were to learned from his talk. This family event proved to be very enjoyable and a lot was to be learned about the natural heritage of the area. The event finished with drinks and snacks and commemorative plaques were presented  to those who provided accurate answers to the questions.

Plenty of fun at the Campa Samhraidh

August '09

There was a lot of spóirt, fun and ‘craic go leor’ at the Campa Samhraidh in Baile Locha Riach again this year. Almost 40 students enjoyed the Irish Language summer camp that took between the 10th and 14th August in Gaelscoil Riabhach in the town.
Gaeilge Locha Riach organized the camp that was funded by Foras na Gaeilge. Caitríona Ní Ríordáin was the director of the course and a few others helped out over the week; Elaine De Faoite and Nóra Ní Fhlannagáin. Everyone seemed to have plenty of fun with games, sport, role-play, artwork, music, singing, drama and a lot more organized over the week.
As well as this, a number of visitors came to the camp and organized special workshops that proved to be very enjoyable. Úna Ní Fhlannagáin took charge of a music and sean-nós dancing workshop and a special art workshop was conducted by Áine Uí Fhlannagáin. Everyone seemed to reap the benifit of the cookery workshop directed by Gabrielle Uí Ríordáin, with pancakes and cakes on the menu. There was great emphasis on sport during the week and great interest in the hurling skills taught by Brian Mahony.
There was a very enjoyable  trip organized to Bridgets Garden, Ros Cathaill, Maigh Cuilinn where they were all given a great welcome and taken on a guided tour of the gardens. They had a lovely picnic on the grounds and the opportunity to do a spot of fishing, play a few more games and enjoy the fine weather.
It must be said that there was a wide attendence at the Campa Samhraidh with a particular welcome to the Mac Conmidhe family from Béal Feirste and Kirwan’s travelling from Tipperary. Of course, most of those attended from the east galway locality
As the camp came to a close, friend and family were invited to attend a special performance which the children had been rehearsing throughout the week. It seemed that everyone really enjoyed the singing, dancing and drama of the show. Yes, there was plenty of fun at the camp .... folk are already asking about  ‘Campa Samhraidh 2010’!

Tasty Féile Bia

18 July '09

The inaugural East Galway Food Festival that took place at St. Brendan’s Home, Loughrea Saturday 18th July was  a great success. It was organized in honour of Stoney Brennan, a local character that was hung for stealing a turnip. The festival highlighted the quality of locally-produced food,  music and folklore of the lakeside area under the shadow of the majestic Slieve Aughty mountains. This was a community festival that provided local folk the opportunity to celebrate local traits.
Everyone enjoyed the fine selection of foods, music, song, drama, folklore of the area and  family entertainment .
A family concert was organized in conjunction with Club na Culture Vultures featuring singers David Conerney, Helen Hayes and the singers from St. Martin’s Day Centre, musicians Muintir Uí Fhlannagáin, Muintir Uí Fhathaigh and pipers from Belfast. Aisteoirí Riabhacha provided a short play on the case and trial of Stoney Brennan.
The Brown Bread Competition had many participants, which was judged by resident Michael Ward.  After much deliberation the winner, Béibhinn Ní Mháille, a student at Gaelscoil Riabhach, was delighted with the outcome.
There were about 600 visitors throughout the day looking around the various stalls of fine foods and crafts. A particular thanks to Funshack for providing a bouncy castle and face painting free of charge throughout the day.
As it was a non-profit event, the organizing committee would like to give a special thanks to Fáilte Ireland and to all their sponsors; Naomh Breandán Credit Union, Supervalu, Foras na Gaeilge, Gaeilge Locha Riach, Baffle agus Cairde na Féile.
A Special Thanks to the Staff and Residents of St. Brendans for their help and use of their home.
Plans are already being put in place for next years festival and interested parties are invited to be involved in the committee. If anyone wishes further information about The East Galway Food Festival, contact eastgalwayfoodfestival@gmail.com  087 6797801 or 087 9296163.

Scoil Cheoil Broderick Carty

Musical Week

July '09 

The traditional Music School was a great success again this year with up to 80 students attending classes throughout the week.
Students had the opportunity to learn to play a wide range of instruments with a particular emphasis on the East Galway style. Classes were available for beginners, improvers, and master classes as well as special sessions organized on various topics and particular instruments. Students also availed of the ceilí, set and sean-nós dancing classes and had the chance to learn a number of traditional songs. Special guests took a number of workshops; Eddie Lenihan, seanchaí, was storytelling, Tim Lyons took a singing workshop and Jacqueline McCarty directed a workshop on the concertina. Children from Belarus took the opportunity to visit the summer school and were delighted to drop in on each class.

A family concert concluded the music school and it was a great honour for parents, friends and local folk to see 80 children performing on stage. That evening a special ceilí was organized with the Tulla Ceilí Band in the Lough Rea Hotel.

Féile Tuohy

17 – 19 July

The pipes were very much to the fore in the Loughrea area during this particular festival that began with a recital with Joe Doyle followed by a great gathering of musicians that played in a powerful piping session late into the night.
Classes and workshops on the pipes were organized throughout the weekend.
The concert in honour of Patsy Tuohy was the highlight of the programme with a wide range of musicians taking part...
Joe Doyle, Pat agus Val Broderick, Úna Ní Fhlannagáin, Dick Joyce, Chris Droney, Cormac Ó Briain, Steve Porter, Mikie Smith, Leo Ricard and many more from Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.
There was a very special mass held in the abbey and events came to a close with a piper’s picnic.

Cumann Óige Celebrates

June 2009

Cumann Óige Locha Riach, family and friends came together at the end of June to celebrate their achievements that they have completed this year.
They certainly had reason to celebrate as they had a busy enough year as they put together a short documentary on DVD based on a play they prepared for ‘Féile Raifteirí’
They also recorded a radio programme with Máirtín Davy Ó Coistealbha RTÉ RnaG by the name of ‘Na Spailpíní Óga’.
Stories about the above  and more were available in the magazine ‘Cois Locha’ which they recently published.
Paidí Ó Lionáird (TG4) launched the DVD, the radio programme and the magazine at this special occasion hosted in Naomh Breandán Credit Union.

Hill’s …. Barr 50.

June 2009

A special prize was presented to Hill’s – Gréasaí agus Glasadóir (Shoemaker and locksmith) in the Four Season’s Hotel in Dublin recently. They were honoured and recognized among Barr 50 (Top 50) companies in Ireland that promote Gaeilge through their business.
Of course, Hill’s is one of the pioneers that understood the importance of marketing through the medium of Irish in the town of Loughrea. They recognized that there was a developing and growing Irish language community in the town and helped inspire this community in the centre of the town and also attract other shoppers to the use of Gaeilge.
Not only do they use bilingual signage and materials but their customers are also encouraged to use Irish. They have won prizes big and small for their efforts throughout the years and it is really no surprize that these efforts are now recognized among Barr 50 awards.
They believe it is vitally important to maintain a special image particularly in small Irish towns. Of course, they believe that there is no more a special an image than a good Gaelic one.
One particular sign that greets customers in the shop is a great example of this image reads:
‘Is cuma le fear na mbróg cá gcuireann sé a chos’  
(The man with shoes doesn’t care where he puts his feet)
Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to congratulate them on their Barr 50 award.

Aisteoirí Aon Oíche

May 2009

The national Irish language festival – Féile Náisiúnta Drámaíochta – was given a special welcome to Loughrea recently as the newly founded ‘Aisteoirí Aon Oíche’ presented ‘Triail Antaine Uí Dhálaigh’ to a packed court house in the town.
Of course, the local folk of Loughrea were particularly proud of the fact that Féile Náisiúnta Drámaíocht was to be based in the town, a fact that inspired the foundation of ‘Aisteoirí Aon Oíche’ and the presentation of the play for the occasion.
The play was originally written by Joseph Forde and translated by Séamus Ó Bruadair. It is based on the historical story about the Ribbonmen that were active in the early part of the 19th century. A false case was taken against their captain, Antaine Ó Dálaigh, in order to quell the Ribbonmen in the area. Ó Dálaigh was hung outside of Loughrea on the hill of Suí Finn 8 April 1820.
It was great achievement for Loughrea people to present such a play to a full house on the opening night of Féile Náisiúnta Drámaíochta and everyone seemed to enjoy the occasion as they received a great applause at the end of their performance.

Féile Náisiúnta Drámaíochta

May 2009

Gaeilge Locha Riach were very proud that the national Irish language drama festival came to Loughrea 1 – 3 May. It really was a great honour to the Irish language community to welcome such an event to the area as the best of plays and top talented actors from all over the country were in the vicinity for the weekend.
Among those that travelled to take part in the national event were:
Aisteoirí Bulfin, Baile Átha Cliath.
Aisteoirí Chill na Martra, Corcaigh.
Aisteoirí Mhic Easmhuinn, An Ceathrú Rua, Co. na Gaillimhe.
Cumann Drámaíochta Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh.
Aisteoirí Mhiobhaigh, Na Dúnaibh, Co. Dhún na nGall.
Aisteoirí Bhréanainn, Corca Dhuibhne, Co. Ciarraí.
                                       
Six great plays are part of the programme in the national competition and the general public were welcome to attend.

There were other events taking place over the weekend including agallamh beirte, lúibíní, short traditional plays and singing sessions. RTÉ RnaG were in Loughrea for most of the weekend and minister Éamonn Ó Cuív T.D. was also in attendence for the award ceremony.

Fóram na n-Óg

March 2009

Fóram na n-Óg that was organized by Gaeilge Locha Riach in St. Raphael’s College was a great success with more than 80 students involved in the days events.
The aim of this forum was to encourage local students to think about the positive aspects of the Irish language outside of the education system.
There were plenty of questions / topics of conversation raised by the guest speakers and the teenagers were very much involved in working groups discussing their own opinians and suggestions.
It must be said there was quite a range of experience from the various speakers present at the Forum:

• Professional actors from ‘Branar’ started off the days events..
• Ré Ó Laighléis (writer and publisher)
• Máirtín Davy Ó Coistealbha, RTÉ RnaG.
• Evan Chamberlain, Goodcompany Productions, TG4
• Síne Níc an Ailí, Conradh na Gaeilge & Raidió Rí-Rá

Throughout the day, the students themselves were very busy discussing the topics in teams. Questionaires were distributed and after some discussion, a lot of positive opinions and suggestions for the future were put forward. These suggestions are currently being studied by Gaeilge Locha Riach and it is hoped that they can be worked upon.

Turas Bhríde .. 1 Feb. '09

A small crowd came together to celebrate and commemorate the heritage of Bríd last Sunday on Bríd’s feast day.
They came together at Bríd’s well in Garraí Bhríde in the town where they had discussion on the folklore of Bríd and the various customs connected to the feastday. There was songs sung in honour of Bríd, a number of tunes played and a few prayers said also. Even though it was a cold day, it warmed the small crowd to think that spring had finally arrived with Bríd’s feastday.

Culture Vulture Club: December ’08

Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to welcome a newly founded Irish organisation in East Galway.  This association was founded in October ’08 to provide friendship and company through the medium of Irish, particularly in Craughwell community.  The main aim of this association is to provide fun through the medium of Irish, which will include Art and Music courses.  This association is not in anyway for profit.
The first event organised recently by this Association was an Art exhibition and Concert in St. Martin’s Church, Craughwell??
Displayed on the night, was work by three local artists; Aideen Cahill, BA Art, Donncha Cahill, BA Art and Sorcha Ni Chroinin who is currently attending Art College in Glasgow, Scotland.  This setting gave an opportunity to the artists to sell their work at a reasonable price on the night.  With this opportunity many a Christmas resent could have been bought.

That night’s concert took place in the kitchen where Joe Burke and Ann Conroy Burke were special guests to start off the music.  Maria O’Keefe played a few tunes after this and young musicians Katie O’Toole, Louise Donohue and Hannah Devine added to the variety of the music.
The Culture Vultures had a great night and it is planned to organise more events in the New Year.

Mid-Winter Comhluadar

22 December ‘08

The Parents Association of Gaelscoil Riabhach in association with Gaeilge Locha Riach recently organised a wonderful party.
More than fifty local families came together and the children played together and enjoyed events organised by the parents for them.  A wide variety of food and drink was provided for the party along with face painting and other events.
Along with that the school provided branding of its own on the night with pupils able to get the school brand onto their school bags. It seems that all pupils had a chance to get their faces branded onto tea-towels that were available to buy during the fundraiser.  Indeed the night provided the opportunity for a few songs to be sung and it seems that both parents and children greatly enjoyed the night.

Youth Party

17 December ’08
Over 25 members of the Loughrea Cumann Óige came together recently to celebrate a wonderful party at Citylimits, Oranmore, where they enjoyed “Laserquest” and bowling.  The young teenagers were able to play and spend time together while parents and directors were happy to keep an eye on things while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee.
Certainly it seems that both the teenagers and parents enjoyed the night’s events immensely.  There was also lively discussion about next year’s plans, including dramas, radio programmes, video workshops, and cartoons, along with many other events.

Thanks from ‘Áthas’ to Comhaltas .
December’08
Charity group ‘Áthas’ which raises funds for children of the Chernobyl disaster recently awarded a Certificate of Gratitude to Chomhaltas Ceoltoiri Éireann, Loughrea for all their support in Summer 2008.  As it happened this year a number of the children from Chernobyl attended a music school in the community this summer.
While attending this Music School the children from Chernobyl learned some beautiful Irish songs, for example ‘Bheir me o’.  Not only did the children enjoy learning these songs, but they were also given the opportunity to learn the tin whistle.
It must be said that the children were very successful in all of these endeavours, having had only one class.
That same evening the children attended a concert, where the performed ‘Bheir mé ó’ beautifully to the audience.  It was indeed inspiring for any aspiring singers or musicians to listen to.
Without a doubt the children from Chernobyl were extremely happy to have learned an Irish song, and went home with a tin whistle and a desire to pass on this talent to their friends at home.

Your Chance with the Irish Language.

December '08
About 150 people from all over East Galway attended a celebration of Irish language culture in Loughrea Tuesday 2 December when Peter Feeney, Mayor of County Galway launched a new Irish language campaign ‘Do Sheans le Gaeilge’. This is an awareness initiative on Irish language development services in East Galway and invites the public in general to re-introduce themselves to Gaeilge. This programme was produced by Galway County Council, County Galway VEC’s and Gaeilge Locha Riach.
These organisations recognized the demand for Irish language classes as well as eductional, youth, internet, media and social support through Gaeilge. On this basis, these organisations decided to work together to provide these services in such a way as to maximise the benifits of public funding. All information is provided in this brochure in an easy accessable manner.
The occasion of this special initiative was married with a number of events. A children’s Irish book fair took place in the afternoon with a literary workshop conducted by award winning writer Ré Ó Laighléis and book launch of bilingual rhymes ‘Yankí Dúidil’ that was illustrated by local artist, Alison Mac Cormaic. ‘An Spailpín Fánach’ also paid the town a visit providing a wide range of Irish language products with a cúpla focail... t-shirts, hoodies, geansaithe etc. ...
The evening’s events started off with traditional music, followed by a short show on Pádraic Ó Conaire with Diarmuid De Faoite. The Mayor of County Galway then officially launched the Irish language initiative ‘Do Sheans le Gaeilge’.
Ali Mac Aindreasa, the chairperson of the local Glór na nGael committee took charge of ‘Spraoicheist’/ Fun Quiz as Gaeilge.
‘Na Clocha Beo’ was also launched, a book based upon local characters commemorated in stone around Baile Locha Riach. This book is based upon lectures given in memory of these characters that had a national influence ... Raifteirí, Antaine Ó Dálaigh, An tAthair Ó Gríofa, Patsy Tuohy, Peter, Vincent Broderick, Paddy Carty, Séamas Ó Ceallaigh, Micheál Ó Cíosóg. A new book on the essays of Pádraic Ó Conaire will also be launched.
The evening’s events concluded with the presentation of Gradaim an Phobail 2008 by Joe McDonagh, CEO Co. Galway VEC. A wide range of community groups were recognized for their efforts in promoting the language as well as the presentation of Gradaim speisialta which recognize particular groups in Órán Mór, Baile Átha an Rí, Gort Inse Guaire, Baile Locha Riach agus Béal Átha na Slua. In total more than 40 community groups were congratulated for their achievements in 2008.

Night of Storytelling
November 2008
There were folklore, historic, religious, personal and humorous stories told during the recent Night of Storytelling organised by Gaeilge Locha Riach.
A small circle of storytellers gathered again and spent the night telling and listening to various stories.
This storytelling night was helped along by author Re Ó Laighleis, and everybody was given the chance to tell a story or two, and indeed the storyteller was given great artistic licence.
One story leads to another, or so we are told, and indeed this night of storytelling continued for quite a while.
Certainly people were very comfortable in this setting drinking cups of tea and coffee and indeed an odd drink that was a bit stronger.
The night was a great success and it is hoped that the storytelling circle will come together again soon in the New Year.

Baffle Winners.
November ‘08
Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to congratulate to the ‘Baffle’ Committee who recently celebrated their 12th festival.  Without a doubt with the support of Foras na Gaeilge, aspects of Irish culture were once again to the fore in the festival.
The honour of officially opening Baffle ‘08 was given to Michael Ó Muircheartaigh.  He took the audience down memory lane making reference to the festival theme: ‘An Chead Uair’ or ‘The First Time’.
This theme was chosen in memory of the meeting which Michael Cusack held in Loughrea on August 15th 1884 when deciding on the founding of the GAA.
On the night of this year’s festival Roisin Elsafty recited one of the poems and indeed out the audience under a spell with her peaceful, sweet voice.
The poetry competition was based on the above-mentioned theme and aspects of it were aimed at students and adults.  A huge welcome was extended to the poet Simon Ó Faoláin who read in his own inimitable style from the anthology ‘Anam Mhadra’ which was published this year.  Simon stayed for the weekend and was one of the judges for the main competition.
And on the subject of the main competition, Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to extend its congratulations to Seán Ó Flannagáin who won the second prize with his poem ‘Lorg Mheire’.  Last year he was awarded third prize…who knows what might be in store for him next year!

Cairde na Gaeilge:
November ’08.
Gaeilge Locha Riach would like to congratulate ‘Cairde na Gaeilge’ (Friends of Irish) in Athenry, Co. Galway on the wide range of events they have put together for the school year 2008-09.
Now that Gaelscoil Riada and Coláiste an Eachreidh have been up and running for a number of years ‘Cairde na Gaeilge’ believes that it is incumbent upon them to establish an Irish community in the neighbourhood.
With that in mind, they intend to organise many social events so that they can establish this community.  For example groups of teachers and children come together weekly and organise after school events, family events, and conversation groups.  There are also many other plans afoot to add to this great work.

Coffee and Book Morning.
November ’08.
A coffee morning was held recently in Gaelscoil Riabhach, Loughrea.  Parents, teachers and school students came together for this special occasion organised so that everybody could have a cup of tea or coffee along with tasting the handmade seet cakes and biscuits.  It must be said that a wide variety of sweet delights was put before the community of the Gaelscoil.
A bookfare was also held on this day.  Many books were sold during the occasion but it would seem that more sweet buns and tasty biscuits were sold.  All profits went towards the organisation of extra events in the school.

Oíche na Leabhar.

25 November '08

A Reading group came together to discuss some of the books they had read since the foundation of the little library September this year.
In all 22 books were discussed at ‘Oíche na Leabhar’ and the reading circle now intend to expand on their store of books. It wasn’t that there was serious criticism made of the books but honest opinions shared.
There is a particular interest in the ‘leabharlann bheag’ in Gaeilge Locha Riach’s offices and also in the reading circle. Folk are always welcome to pop in , choose a book and to join the reading circle.

18 October '08

Gaeilge Locha Riach organized a great session recently hosting the best of music and song.
No particular reason for the session ...for the hell of it. Of course there was no other resoin needed to enjoy the great musical company throughout the night. Particular emphasis was placed on the brilliant Lillis Ó Laoire who was visiting the town for the night. He has a fine repetoire of songs which was well respected by the evenings audience. He sang a number of songs, some relating to Raifteirí and other’s that were collected locally.
Among other musicians of the evening were Breeda Keville, Verena Commins, Seán Ó Flannagáin agus Eugene Bellew. Other singers were also invited to take part over the evening.