Cruinniú Festival Welcomes Concertina Enthusiasts of All Ages for a Weekend of Expert-Led Classes, Cultural Discussions and Free Traditional Music Sessions in Ireland

Written By: Binoy Mehera

Binoy Mehera

A curious mind driven by a passion for storytelling, I find inspiration in uncovering hidden perspectives, exploring diverse experiences, and shaping ideas into narratives that leave an impact. With three years of experience in journalism and content creation, I have developed a strong instinct for identifying meaningful stories, blending research with creativity, and presenting information in a way that connects with readers. My storytelling journey is guided by a fascination for culture, travel, lifestyle, and the human experiences that define our world. I aim to create narratives that not only inform but also spark curiosity, evoke emotions, and offer audiences a deeper understanding of every story.

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February 13, 2025 06:22 GMT+5:30

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Cruinniú is a vibrant weekend festival celebrating the concertina, combining expert-led classes, insightful lectures, and lively traditional music sessions. Open to all ages and skill levels, it offers structured morning lessons, informal afternoon practice sessions, and dedicated junior and adult gatherings. Public lectures delve into the instrument’s rich heritage, while the Concertina Trail lights up local pubs each night with free traditional music sessions led by master tutors, including Noel Hill. More than just a festival, Cruinniú is a unique fusion of learning, culture, and community, keeping the spirit of Irish music alive.

Clare Heritage
Clare Institute for Traditional Studies
Concertina Meeting – The Great Concertina Festival
Miltown Malbay, Ireland
14th–16th February 2025

2025 Concertina Cruinniú Programme:

Friday, 14 February

8:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Official Opening & Music Session
Harry Hughes introduces Peadar Ó Riada for the Clare launch of “Ceoltóirí Chualann: The Band that Changed the Course of Irish Music.” The evening continues with live music featuring Peadar Ó Riada, Eamon McGivney, and John Kelly (The Drôle).
📍 Venue: Community Centre
🎟 Admission: €10 | Free for registered students

10:00 PM | Concertina Music Trail
Join some of the finest concertina players and traditional musicians in select pubs for an informal music trail.
🎟 Admission: Free | All are welcome

Saturday, 15 February

9:00 AM | Class Grading
📍 Venue: Miltown Malbay Community Centre

10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Concertina Classes (with a short break at 11:15 AM)
Classes will be held at the Community Centre and St. Joseph’s National School, led by a panel of expert tutors and overseen by Master Tutor Noel Hill.

🎵 Masterclass with Noel Hill (Pre-registration required).

Tutors: Colm Browne, Sorcha Curtin, Edel Fox, Bernie Geraghty, Aoife Kelly, Jacqueline McCarthy, Mary MacNamara, Caoilfhionn Ní Fhrighil, Liam O’Brien, Conor O’Loughlin, Michelle O’Sullivan, Aidan Quigney, Jack Talty.

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Lecture with Claire Keville
“There was no tune at all at all in good land” – The Concertina Music of Gerdie Commane.
📍 Venue: Community Centre
🎟 Admission: €5 | Free for registered students

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Open Sessions
🎵 Junior Session (Led by Bríd O’Donohue & Colm Browne)
📍 Venue: St. Joseph’s National School
🎟 Admission: Free | All welcome

🎵 Intermediate Session (Under 18s in advanced/master class) (Led by Bernie Geraghty & Aoife Kelly)
📍 Venue: Community Centre
🎟 Admission: Free | Fáilte roimh chách

🎵 Adult Session (Led by Claire Keville & John Weir)
📍 Venue: Friels Bar
🎟 Admission: Free | All welcome

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | The Listening Room
An intimate session featuring Noel Hill, Jack Talty, and Sorcha Costello, recorded for ITMA (Irish Traditional Music Archive).
📍 Venue: Westbridge Bar & Restaurant
🎟 Admission: €10 | Free for registered students

8:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Saturday Night Concert
Featuring performances by Liam O’Brien, Deirdre Hurley, and Pádraig Ó Dubhghaill, followed by GARADICE with special guest Tom Morrow. Hosted by Tim Dennehy and recorded for ITMA.
📍 Venue: Community Centre
🎟 Admission: €25 | Student ticket: €10

10:00 PM | Concertina Music Trail
Enjoy live music in select pubs, featuring some of the festival’s finest concertina players.
🎟 Admission: Free | Everyone welcome

Sunday, 16 February

10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Concertina Classes (with a short break at 11:15 AM)
📍 Venues: Community Centre & St. Joseph’s National School

2:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Songs & Tunes Gathering
An afternoon of songs and tunes with Tim Dennehy, Róisín White, Martin O’Malley, Pat O’Connor, Eva Carroll, and John Canny.
📍 Venue: The Forge at The Players Bar
🎟 Admission: Free | All welcome

Additional Information

🎵 Concertina Repairs – Kevin Costello will be available for concertina repairs at the Community Centre on Saturday and Sunday.

🎟 Festival Fees:

• Early Bird Registration: €70 (Available until 31st January 2025)
• Standard Registration: €85 (After 31st January 2025)
• Includes two days of tuition and access to all events except the Saturday Night Concert.

Live Concert – A Night of Exceptional Concertina Music

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📅 Saturday, 15th February 2025 | 8:30 PM
📍 Community Centre, Miltown Malbay

Concertina Meeting 2025 Tutors

• Noel Hill
• Colm Browne
• Sarah Curtin
• Edel Fox
• Bernie Geraghty
• Aoife Kelly
• Mary MacNamara
• Jacqueline McCarthy
• Caoilfhionn Ní Fhrighil (Photo by Pasquello Photography)
• Liam O’Brien
• Conor O’Loughlin
• Michelle O’Sullivan
• Aidan Quigney
• Jack Talty

Experience an unforgettable evening of traditional Irish music with Pádraig Ó Dubhghaill, Deirdre Hurley, and Liam O’Brien, as they bring the rich sounds of the concertina to life. A must-attend event for music lovers!

GARADICE
with special guest Tom Morrow

Host: Tim Dennehy
🎟 Admission:

• Registered Cruinniú Students: €10
• General Admission: €25

This event will be recorded for ITMA (Irish Traditional Music Archive).

Ireland City Guide: A Land of Rich History, Scenic Beauty, and Warmth

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Ireland, a small yet enchanting island in Europe, offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted history, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re exploring its verdant countryside or immersing yourself in its rich culture, Ireland leaves a lasting impression, making you eager to return.

Top Destinations to Visit in Ireland

• Newgrange (County Meath)
  • One of Europe’s most remarkable prehistoric sites
  • Famous for its passage tomb aligned with the winter solstice sun
  • Part of the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Built over 5,200 years ago, predating Egypt’s pyramids by 600 years
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Dublin)
  • Ireland’s largest church and the final resting place of Jonathan Swift
  • Built between 1191 and 1270 on the legendary site where St. Patrick baptized Celtic chieftains in the 5th century
  • A sacred and historic landmark
• Phoenix Park (Dublin)
  • Europe’s largest urban park at 707 hectares
  • Home to the President of Ireland, the American Embassy, and a herd of fallow deer
  • Features Dublin Zoo, the oldest zoo in Europe
  • Perfect for outdoor sports like running, cycling, and polo
• Kilmainham Gaol (Dublin)
  • Former prison significant to Ireland’s history of resistance to British rule
  • A must-visit for understanding Ireland’s fight for independence
• National Gallery of Ireland (Dublin)
  • Home to remarkable works by Caravaggio and Jack B. Yeats
  • Features extensive collections of Irish art and European masterpieces
  • A rich cultural experience for art lovers

Top Hotels in Miltown Malbay:

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1. Armada Hotel
   • Location: Spanish Point, near Miltown Malbay
   • Features: Stunning ocean views, comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, spa, and a prime location near Spanish Point Beach.
2. Bellbridge House Hotel
   • Location: Spanish Point, close to Miltown Malbay
   • Features: Cozy rooms, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its proximity to the beach and its friendly service.
3. The Kilcorran Lodge
   • Location: Near Miltown Malbay
   • Features: A peaceful and charming bed and breakfast offering a cozy stay with breakfast options and a friendly atmosphere.
4. The Liscannor Hotel
   • Location: Liscannor (near Miltown Malbay)
   • Features: A comfortable, family-friendly hotel, ideal for exploring the Cliffs of Moher and the surrounding area.
5. Cliffs of Moher Hotel
   • Location: Liscannor, just a short drive from Miltown Malbay
   • Features: Boutique-style accommodation with modern rooms, a restaurant, and great access to the Cliffs of Moher.

These hotels provide a mix of seaside charm, modern amenities, and friendly service, making them excellent choices for visitors exploring Miltown Malbay and its surroundings.