Surprise 70th celebrations for Glasson’s Colette at Magico bakery
A surprise birthday celebration at Magico Bakery in Athlone marked the 70th birthday of Glasson resident Colette Kenny last Friday.
A native of Tyrrellspass, Colette has lived in Glasson with her partner Sean Kenny for the past 40 years. The couple share four children together.
The party was arranged by Colette's husband Sean, with the help of Carrol Ripley. A cake and decorations were provided by Giulia Barnardo, owner of Magico, and her team. Colette, who plays the concertina, was accompanied by a group of fellow musicians for the morning of music, fun, and festivity.
The piano, a tin whistle, guitars, and a banjo filled the local bakery with traditional music on the day. The 70-year-old attends music sessions at Magico every Friday mornings organised by Carrol Ripley, which have been taking place over recent months.
Image 1 of 1
Jila Cunningham, John Cunningham, Laurna Fallon, Giulia Barnardo, Cha Nicholson, Carrol Ripley, Ethna Benson, Jimmy O’ Meara, Francesca Giacomelli, Patricia Chicet, Massimo Di Pietraníonio and Tony Dunne with Colette Kenny and Sean Kenny at Collette’s birthday celebrations in Magico Bakery. Photo Paul Molloy Paul Molloy 2026"The music is a mixture of traditional instrumentals and singing. The atmospheres and venue in Magico is excellent," Colette said.
Having played piano and accordion in her youth, Colette came back to music later in life, picking up the concertina in her late 50s.
"My first lessons were from Eimear Brett, who is now with Athlone CCE. Then I had classes and workshops with renowned concertina player Mary McNamara of Tulla, Clare.
"I got great encouragement locally, including welcome and support from Tony Dunne's group of musicians, and learned many tunes from fiddle teacher Geraldine McLynn of Tang. I then got involved in the Tanglewood adult group which she organises."
Following her retirement from the Public Service, Colette started to learn tin whistle Enda Seery in Streamstown, and more recently trad piano with local musician Stephen Heffernan.
"Athlone is blessed with a great music community with musicians of exceptional talent who are welcoming and willing to share their experience with persons of all ages and abilities," Colette said.
The surprise birthday celebrations were much appreciated by Colette and she extends her thanks to everyone involved.