In Pictures: Peig, aged 99, reveals at Limerick concert it is 'music' that keeps her young

WHAT better way to celebrate the love of music and the love felt for Peig Ryan than with a concert.

The Cappamore Community Centre was packed to capacity on Sunday afternoon for the momentous occasion.

For more photos taken by Dave Gaynor, click 'Next'.

The Comhaltas branch based in Cappamore marked 50 years since its foundation and also honoured one of the founding members, Peig, who is in her 100th year. It was formed by Peig and her late husband Mick because their commitment to preserving and teaching traditional music.

Peig spoke at the end of the concert and revealed East Limerick's loss could have been America's gain! She spoke about a missed chance for the family to follow her dad Stateside but said smiling, "Maybe I’m as well off or I wouldn’t be here tonight”.

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Peig was most proud of the music in her family now, having come from a family surrounded by music. Her great age and good health she puts down to "the music". 

"Thanks so much everybody. It’s been a fantastic day and night for an old woman of my age. It has been wonderful. I don’t know what I feel today - I feel so joyful and so excited.

"I have a wonderful family and fantastic grandchildren and great grandchildren, and most of them are playing music, which is to my delight, thanks to their parents and their teachers, of course

"And thanks that our branch of Comhaltas is still going strong and with Tomás (Ó Maoldomhnaigh) at the head I’ve no fear for its future," said Peig, who was awarded Gradam na hEigse. It is a new award that has been initiated by Comhaltas to acknowledge men and women who have made a particular contribution in the fields of education, scholarship, planning, vision, etc.

Maeve Scahill, of Craobh Pheig Uí Riain - recently renamed in Peig's honour - said they had "an amazing day".

"The amount of musicians that came from all around to pay tribute to Peig was wonderful. The celebration continued until 7pm!" said Maeve.