Ballyboy Comhaltas pays tribute to the late Ashling Murphy in end of year review

2022 has been a year of contrasting high and low emotions for everyone in Ballyboy CCÉ with the horrific news of the passing of treasured friend and colleague Ashling Murphy to many more enjoyable events we enjoyed being part of during the year.

After the group's AGM in November 2021, the country was still stuck in the grip of the terrible Covid pandemic, but members were anxiously looking forward to a quick return to normality and the resumption of all branch activities.

On January 12 a profound feeling of dismay, disbelief, numbness and bewilderment descended on the community with the devastating news that dear friend Ashling had passed away.

A completely senseless and unforgiven act of brutality robbed us of a truly inspirational and highly respected and gifted young musician, teacher, mentor and loving friend who always gave a gracious, dedicated and heartfelt presence to all branch activities.

Ashling was an exceptionally talented, focussed and gracious young lady who made an unforgettable impression on anybody who had the good fortune to meet her.

Always in members thoughts and prayers they will forever cherish the memories of her warm personality and positive attitude to parents and children alike, her talent, elegance and radiant smile both on stage and in the classroom, also her impeccable music making, her outgoing personality and zest for life.

It was a great honour for Ballyboy CCÉ to host Fleadh Cheoil Uíbh Fhailí in Kilcormac from April 30 to May 1.

The dedicated and hardworking Fleadh committee showed great resilience and commitment to organising what was generally agreed to be one of the most successful Fleadh in recent years.

Congratulations to all the competitors who advanced from the Offaly Fleadh to Fleadh Laighean in Portlaoise and the club also had many successful achievements in Mullingar at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August.

Ballyboy CCÉ musicians, dancers and singers performed for the Fleadh Cheoil Uíbh Fhailí Mass in Kilcormac, the Darkness into Light event in Boora parklands on May 6, the Gig Rig at the Tullamore TradFest and the Dyno day fundraiser for Ballyboy Community Development fundraiser.

The branch hosted its annual concert on Friday, November 18 last. Thanks is extended to the fantastic committee and tutors for organising such an amazing concert. A special thank you to the staff of the KDA for being so accommodating on the night. Congratulations to all newcomers and members who performed for the first time on stage. It was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Tullamore Tradfest organised a concert tribute to Aishling Murphy and Ballyboy CCE gave an inspiring performance on the mainstage that evening.

They also featured on the main Gig Rig and on TG4 Fleadh TV (their first appearance on national television ) at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Mullingar. After a busy Summer of events in early August the great group of tutors and helpers finally succeeded in organising the return of regular tuition classes for the 2022/2023 schedule.

Ballyboy CCE express deep appreciation and gratitude to Dan & Molly’s for all their help and co-operation during the year. Also thanks to Grace Clendennen and her staff in Scoil Bhríde for the use of their facilities. John Gill has always been a great friend and supporter to the branch, all year he has been generous with his time and always available when called on. The group would like to express sincere sympathy to all our members who have lost friends or loved ones during the year.

Ballyboy CCÉ would like to wish one and all a very merry, musical and enjoyable Christmas and a happy New Year.

Please visit ww.ballyboycce.com for all information and see the Facebook Page ‘Ballyboy Comhaltas’ for all upcoming events.