The successful week-long programme of Ulster Fleadh events, sessions and competitions in Dromore was brought to a close on Sunday evening (July 23) with one last hurrah as popular band The Whistlin’ Donkeys entertained with an open air concert in the town centre.
Céili dancing in the middle of Dromore village.
Hundreds of people crowded the streets to enjoy the live music, dancing and craic, ending the festival, which ran from July 16 to July 23, on a great high.
Annette McPaul and Declan McElhinney.
Alongside the live music sessions and other cultural events associated with the Ulster Fleadh, the competitions are hugely important, encouraging young musicians to share their talents.
Fermanagh Comhaltas County Board was very proud of all the competitors who represented Fermanagh at the Ulster Fleadh over the weekend.
‘Delighted’
“We were delighted that the competitors’ hard work and musical skills were showcased in their competitions, and we’re very pleased that Fermanagh will be very well represented in Mullingar at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, from August 6 to 14,” said a spokesperson for Fermanagh Comhaltas County Board.
Mickey Kerr of The Whistlin' Donkeys.
They added: “Well done to all the competitors, and we wish all those going to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann the very best of luck!
“We share in your branches’ celebrations of your success. Ádh mór agus Fear Mannach abú.”
Congratulating Dromore Comhaltas on hosting such an “impressive and memorable Ulster Fleadh”, the spokesperson continued: “Thank you to all the volunteers and the residents of Dromore who helped create a fabulous atmosphere to celebrate our music, heritage and culture.”
The results of successful Fermanagh Comhaltas competitors across various Ulster Fleadh categories are as follows.
Under-12 Fiddle – 3rd, Sarah McKeever, Botha CCÉ.
12-15 Fiddle – 1st, Olivia O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ; 2nd, Ciara O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ.
Under-12 Button Accordion – 2nd, John Joe Flynn, Newtownbutler CCÉ.
12-15 Button Accordion – 2nd, Aodhan O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ.
12-15 Concertina – 3rd, Ceara Ní Mhaonaile, Roslea CCÉ.
Over-18 Concertina – 1st, Erin Whitley, Irvinestown CCÉ.
Under-12 Uilleann Pipes – 3rd, Dáithi O’Maonaile, Roslea CCÉ.
12-15 Accompaniment – 2nd, Sean McAleer, Irvinestown CCÉ.
12-15 Céilí Drums – 3rd, Molly Hughes, Roslea CCÉ.
Over-18 Céilí Drums – 1st, Ryan Maguire, Roslea CCÉ.
12-15 Fiddle Slow Air – 1st, Cathy Britton, Irvinestown CCÉ.
Over-18 Fiddle Slow Air – 1st, Kerry McCabe, Newtownbutler CCÉ.
Under-12 Uilleann Pipes Slow Air – 3rd, Dáithi O’Maonaile, Roslea CCÉ.
Over-18 Whistle Slow Air – 3rd, Kerry McCabe, Newtownbutler CCÉ.
12-15 Duet – 1st, Olivia O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ and Ciara O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ.
12-15 Trio – 1st, Olivia O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ; Ciara O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ; Aodhan O’Donnell, Roslea CCÉ.
12-15 Whistling – 1st, Sean McAleer, Irvinestown CCÉ.
12-15 Lilting – 1st, Sean McAleer, Irvinestown CCÉ.
Newly Composed Song – 3rd, Julie Ann McCaffrey, Botha CCÉ.
Newly Composed Tune – 2nd, Sean McAleer, Irvinestown CCÉ.
Comhrá Gaeilge Under-9 – Crónán Mac Giolla Phádraig, Newtownbutler CCÉ.
Comhrá Gaeilge (11-13) – Odhrán Mac Giolla Phádraig, Newtownbutler CCÉ.
Comhrá Gaeilge (13-15) – Tiarán Mac Giolla Phádraig, Newtownbutler CCÉ.
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