Celtic Brothers to perform for Thurles Cathedral roof project with return concert

Following a brilliant concert in the Cathedral of the Assumption a few short years ago, the very popular Celtic Brothers are making a return trip and are set to light up the aisles with their unique take on many contemporary classics.

It was indeed a memorable evening when Robbie, Des, Johnny and Richie Willoughby performed excellently, chiding and cajoling each other much to the delight of the audience.

And enthusiasts can look forward to an evening of superb musical entertainment on Friday, September 27, with all proceeds from the event going towards the Cathedral Reroofing Project. 

Celtic Brothers’ passion for singing and performing, combined with a genuine closeness, stems from a childhood filled with music and singing, a love they carried with them throughout their formative years into adulthood, a gift given to them by musical parents who also had a touring band.

Having recorded four albums as the six-piece Willoughby Brothers, the now-refined four-piece Celtic Brothers comprises of Robbie, Des, Johnny and Richie whose unique and recognisable sound includes a repertoire featuring a blend of Irish ballads, popular classics and contemporary songs that take their audience on an emotive musical journey. 

Performing in Ireland, the UK and the USA, entertaining and endearing audiences for the past number of years.

Celtic Brothers are delighted to bring their newly evolved show to their loyal and valued followers, of which there are very many.

The brothers have crafted a very casual banter and delivery during their live shows, which are complemented with laughter especially when the oldest brother in the pack, Richie, recalls anecdotal stories of them growing up as children.

They also pay respect to their late mother Breda, who died aged 38 when the brothers were children leaving the brothers having to rely solely on their father, which made them grow even closer.

Richie was the first to follow the stage spotlight, joining his parents’ band playing the drums at the tender age of 13, while Des went on to study singing with the renowned vocal coach Dr Veronica Dunne, before joining and touring extensively with the Three Irish Tenors.

Not only have the brothers a love of singing in common, but they also share a passion for sport, Gaelic football and handball in particular and impressively hold All-Ireland handball medals.

Adding to the family’s sporting success, Richie, Johnny and Robbie are also World Handball Champions.

Their new album Homeland topped the Official iTunes Charts, and has featured prominently on Ireland’s National Radio station RTE 1’s playlist.

The Cathedral of the Assumption Reroofing project has been running for some years now and is gathering pace all the time.

The roof hand now reached the point where re-slating is required to protect the structure and internal fabric of the Cathedral.

This latest concert will help to bolster the fund to get the much-needed works underway and follows on from other similar events featuring artists like James Kilbane, Patrick Feeney, Phil Coulter, Fr Ray Kelly, the Three Priests from Northern Ireland and most recently Michael English and his band.

If you wish to support the re-roofing works, why not purchase a ticket for the Celtic Brothers this week.

Tickets are now on sale in Thurles Parish Centre (0504 22229), Bookworm (0504 22257) and Holycross Abbey Shop (0504 43124).

Book early to avoid disappointment.