By Damien Maher
The Ballynacargy CCÉ Branch officially opened its new Teach Ceoil in the village last Friday evening, where a packed attendance witnessed a wonderful seisiún of traditional Irish music.
Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ard Stiúrthóir of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, was the guest of honour on the evening. A superb speaker, he praised the Ballynacargy Branch for its vision and fortitude, wishing them continued success in their new home.
It was, as Ballynacargy CCÉ Chairman, Willie Penrose said, an auspicious occasion for the branch, which now has 300 members. Their star continues to rise: from humble beginnings in February 2012, they have grown into one of the finest CCE branches in the country and their energy, enthusiasm and flair for the music shows no signs of abating.
‘Music says things that words simply can’t’ is just one of the messages that adorns the walls of the Comhaltas headquarters, formerly the village’s courthouse. Ballynacargy CCÉ has successfully secured a long-term lease from Westmeath County Council and have plans to develop the building as interest in traditional music, song and dance continues to grow.
The big attendance of over 300 people remained until midnight and were feted in the marquees specially erected for the occasion. The music continued in Ballynacargy on Sunday with another memorable seisiún.
Music – an ancillary passport
“The value of learning and enjoying the music is key,” noted Willie Penrose during his speech at Friday’s official opening.
“It’s like an ancillary passport. You can carry your music wherever you go in the world and you will be recognised as Irish,” he remarked.
The Chairman thanked all who helped bring about Friday’s historic gathering, including his fellow committee members, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and Musical Director, Joe Connaire, who has done outstanding work with all musicians. Colortrend were thanked for sponsoring the paint for the building as were all the volunteers who assisted, led by Shane Maher. Glanbia sponsored the stove for the building, giving it a warm, homely feel.
“Our intention is to make this a vibrant, active, ambitious and inclusive branch,” he said.
Willie thanked Siobhán Ní Chonaráin of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann for helping to keep the branch focused. They hosted the Westmeath Fleadh in 2013 and had their sights set on the Leinster equivalent a year later, but it went to Moate and Willie acknowledged that the correct decision was made.
“Our ambition was over weening,” he said. “Siobhan kept us on the straight and narrow and she is a terrific advert for Comhaltas at national level.”
CCÉ was founded in Mullingar in 1951
Labhrás Ó Murchú spoke eloquently about the role of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and its significant contribution to the country. He reminded the gathering that CCÉ was founded in Mullingar back in 1951 and has since grown and developed into an international organisation, with branches in places like Moscow, Australia, Britain and Japan.
“The influence of Comhaltas all over the world is amazing and music has also unified the different traditions in this country,” he said.
Complimenting the Ballynacargy Branch, he said they are playing a vital role in helping traditional music flourish in the region, with a cluster of centres now running across Westmeath. Volunteerism is alive and well, if the Ballynacargy Branch is anything to go by, observed the Ard Stiúrthóir.
“People like the Moynihans and Willie Reynolds would be so happy today to thank you for what you have achieved so far. Ballynacargy has been an absolute inspiration to us in Comhaltas,” he added, suggesting that the branch will only grow stronger in the years ahead.
Ver Rev Fr John Nally, PP Ballynacargy and Sonna, officially blessed the new Teach Ceoil with water from nearby St Biseach’s Well. He praised the Ballynacargy branch for what they have achieved.
“You have transformed a place of trepidation and fear into a place of life an joy,” he remarked, in reference to the former court house. Praising the young people for bringing their musical talents to life, he noted: “It’s peer to peer that changes things.”
Padraig Keena, Cathaoirleach of Westmeath CCÉ, himself an All-Ireland champion, also had words of praise for all involved with the project.
The Ballynacargy branch will be hosting their Summer Trad Fest from June 26th to 28th, and this year’s event will once again include the very popular Wee Banjo 3.
