The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, hosted a special reception for Ray McGinley, founder of the McGinley School of Music and Drama, to celebrate her 80th birthday and the release of her new memoir, Finding the Music. For over 50 years, Ray McGinley has been at the heart of music education across Derry and Donegal, inspiring and mentoring thousands of young people. Through her teaching, she has prepared generations of students for feiseanna competitions and formal music examinations, while consistently encouraging them to pursue their artistic ambitions with confidence. In addition to her teaching, Ray has played a central role in the local arts and music scene through her leadership of the McGinley School Choir, and now has launched her new book, co-written with her husband, Michael. Congratulating Mrs McGinley on her new book, Finding the Music, Mayor McHugh said, “Ray McGinley’s contribution to the cultural and musical life of our city and region is truly exceptional. Through her dedication, she has inspired generations of young people to develop their talents and confidence. Her new book, Finding the Music, is a fitting reflection on a lifetime of passion, commitment, and community spirit. I’d like to say a huge congratulations on all her work, and wish her a very happy birthday.” PICTURED BELOW: Ray McGinley presenting a copy of her book “Finding the Music” to Mayor Ruairí McHugh. Included is her husband Michael. (Photos - nwpresspics) We want your photos to feature on the website via our Camera Club. Do you have a great photo from life in the locality? Whether it’s a party, wedding, communion, landscape, a quirky shot from your archives, or a simple everyday moment, we want your snapshots. We are inviting people to share photos that capture the spirit of the county. From special occasions to quieter moments, your pictures help tell the story of everyday life in our community. To submit: Go to the Camera Club page and follow the instructions to

placeholder image — The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, hosted a special reception for Ray McGinley, founder of the McGinley School of Music and Drama, to celebrate her 80th birthday and the release of her new memoir, Finding the Music. For over 50 years, Ray McGinley has been at the heart of music education across Derry and Donegal, inspiring and mentoring thousands of young people. Through her teaching, she has prepared generations of students for feiseanna competitions and formal music examinations, while consistently encouraging them to pursue their artistic ambitions with confidence. In addition to her teaching, Ray has played a central role in the local arts and music scene through her leadership of the McGinley School Choir, and now has launched her new book, co-written with her husband, Michael. Congratulating Mrs McGinley on her new book, Finding the Music, Mayor McHugh said, “Ray McGinley’s contribution to the cultural and musical life of our city and region is truly exceptional. Through her dedication, she has inspired generations of young people to develop their talents and confidence. Her new book, Finding the Music, is a fitting reflection on a lifetime of passion, commitment, and community spirit. I’d like to say a huge congratulations on all her work, and wish her a very happy birthday.” PICTURED BELOW: Ray McGinley presenting a copy of her book “Finding the Music” to Mayor Ruairí McHugh. Included is her husband Michael. (Photos - nwpresspics) We want your photos to feature on the website via our Camera Club. Do you have a great photo from life in the locality? Whether it’s a party, wedding, communion, landscape, a quirky shot from your archives, or a simple everyday moment, we want your snapshots. We are inviting people to share photos that capture the spirit of the county. From special occasions to quieter moments, your pictures help tell the story of everyday life in our community. To submit: Go to the Camera Club page and follow the instructions to

IN PICTURES: Derry’s Ray McGinley celebrates 80 years and new memoir

Published 7th May 2026, 18:33 GMT

The founder of the McGinley School of Music is honoured by the Mayor for five decades of mentoring local talent

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Mayor Ruairí McHugh making a presentation to Ray McGinley at a reception in her honour held in the Whittaker Suite, Guildhall. Included are husband Michael, family and friends.

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Mayor Ruairí McHugh making a presentation to Ray McGinley at a reception in her honour held in the Whittaker Suite, Guildhall. Included are husband Michael and daughter Rachel.

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Mayor Ruairí McHugh with Ray McGinley at a reception in her honour held in the Whittaker Suite, Guildhall. Included are husband Michael, brothers, Fr. Michael Porter and Bill Porter. (Photos - nwpresspics)

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We want your photos to feature on the website via our Camera Club. Do you have a great photo from life in the locality? Whether it’s a party, wedding, communion, landscape, a quirky shot from your archives, or a simple everyday moment, we want your snapshots. We are inviting people to share photos that capture the spirit of the county. From special occasions to quieter moments, your pictures help tell the story of everyday life in our community. To submit: Go to the Camera Club page and follow the instructions to upload your photo. Include your name, where it was taken, and a short caption if you can. Your photo could be featured on our website and newspaper and seen by readers across the county and beyond. TAP HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR PICTURES TODAY For more information scan the QR code below.

Derry County Derry

IN PICTURES: Derry’s Ray McGinley celebrates 80 years and new memoir

The founder of the McGinley School of Music is honoured by the Mayor for five decades of mentoring local talent

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