THE Cappamore branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann is set to celebrate two very auspicious anniversaries this weekend.
Members will mark 50 years of making music on this Sunday while founding member Peig Ryan will celebrate entering her 100th year.
Originally known as Craobh Maigh Rua – An Cheapach Mhór, the branch was recently renamed to credit Peig, its longest standing teacher and founder. Going forward, the branch will be known as Craobh Pheig Uí Riain.
Excitement is building for what promises to be an occasion to remember when, on Sunday Jauary 15 , the community of Cappamore, Murroe, and surrounding areas, along with musicians from near and far, will gather to celebrate the two significant events.
The commitment to preserve and teach traditional music was important to Peig and her late husband Mick. This passion drew interest from all around county Limerick and beyond county borders.
In honour of the rich tradition Peig and Mick created, the concert will feature a host of world class musicians, local students beginning on their musical journey, and Peig’s own family and friends.
It’s hoped that Peig herself, who still plays the concertina, might put in an appearance at the concert and play.
The committee has confirmed Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, of trad band DANÚ and RTÉ fame, as MC for the event. She will be joined by her dad Fergie and uncle Mike on stage.
The concert showcases current students, teachers present and past, as well as renowned traditional musicians Mick, Louise, and Michelle Mulcahy from Abbeyfeale, box player Bobby Gardiner, Limerick native uilleann piper Mickey Dunne, box player Domhnall de Barra, percussionist Tommy Hayes (of Stockton’s Wing), the Moloney family from Cappamore, singing sisters Aedin and Orfhlaith Ní Bhriain, Murty and Noel Ryan Newport, Eamonn Moloney, Mícheál Ó Riabhaigh and the “Pa McGrath House Band” from Boher, Seán O’Sé, the original “Poc ar Buile”, Seán Ó Riada’s Ceoltóirí Chualann, and harpist Mary Kelly.
The very special concert takes place in the Cappamore Community Centre from 2pm on January 15. Entry at the door €10 per adult, children go free.
