Shine to star at Milltown
After sixteen unforgettable Comhaltas concerts hosted by the Frank Gavigan Branch in Milltown Rathconrath, each one building on the last, it’s remarkable how the standard continues to rise.
This year’s 17th annual concert promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with a line-up brimming with exceptional talent – and there is a range of associated events taking place over the remainder of the weekend.
Over the years, the Milltown stage has welcomed legends such as Foster and Allen, Joe Burke, Seamus Tansey, Kieran Hanrahan, Bobby Gardiner and the Bridge Céilí Band. Among the most requested artists, however, has been Brendan Shine, one of Ireland’s best-loved entertainers since he first topped the charts with O’Brien Has No Place to Go and a string of other hits.
Brendan began on the accordion with his father’s band while still at school, before joining the renowned Ciaran Kelly Céilí Band and touring extensively across Ireland and England.
Since forming his own band in the late 1960s, he has released more than 50 albums, scored more than 45 hit singles, and even performed for Pope John Paul II during his visit to Ireland in 1979. With credentials like those, it’s little wonder that excitement is building for his appearance on the first Friday in October.
Sharing the stage will be the celebrated duo PJ Murrihy and Seamus Shannon. Murrihy, a gifted storyteller and singer, combines effortlessly with Shannon, a master of the accordion, to deliver performances that capture the heart and soul of rural Ireland.
Their deep-rooted understanding of the music and its history makes them a formidable and much-admired pairing.
Also on stage will be the dynamic duo of Daithí Gormley and Elaine Reilly, two of the finest traditional musicians of their generation. Daithí’s mastery of the button accordion and Elaine’s outstanding banjo playing promise a performance full of fire, energy and finesse.
Adding further depth to the programme is Ademar O’Connor, a remarkable multi-instrumentalist who holds a record number of all-Ireland medals. His versatility and artistry have earned him widespread acclaim, and his contribution is sure to be a highlight.
The local spirit will be strongly felt with the Milltown Singers, whose rich harmonies and traditional repertoire always bring warmth and a true sense of community to the stage. Mick Foster will also return alongside the ever-popular Rathconrath Céilí Band, whose lively tunes are guaranteed to have feet tapping and to showcase the vibrancy of the local music scene.
Ensuring plenty of laughter between the music will be Martin Donohoe of Shannonside Radio, known to many as The Cavanman. A quick wit with a fondness for storytelling, he’ll keep the audience entertained throughout the night.
This concert is more than just a line-up of performances; it is a celebration of Irish culture, music and community spirit. From rousing reels and jigs to tender ballads, the evening will offer something to delight every lover of Irish traditional music.
So mark your calendars for Friday October 3 Whether you are a long-time fan of traditional music or simply in search of a memorable night out, the Milltown Community Centre is the place to be. Doors open at 7pm, and music from 8pm. Admission €20.
Associated events
The celebrations don’t stop there. On Saturday October 4, the Glenside Céilí Band will provide the music for a lively céilí at the same venue, running from 9pm to midnight with a tea break at half-time (Admission €10).
On Sunday October 5, the 11 o’clock Mass in Milltown will be a special Comhaltas Mass, offered for deceased members who dedicated themselves to promoting traditional music in the area.
That evening, Fox’s Bar in Loughnavalley will host one of the finest pub sessions in the midlands, starting at 7pm. Led by Mick and Moyra Foster with the Rathconrath Céilí Band, the session welcomes musicians young and old. Admission is free, with food and refreshments served on the night.