Over 75 years of tradition through Athlone Comhaltas

Athlone has a proud history with Comhaltas, stretching back over seven decades and rooted in the town’s long connection with Irish music, culture and heritage.

According to Féile na Sionainne Chairperson Jim Mulkerrins, Athlone’s Comhaltas story began in 1951, with the town playing a significant role in the national traditional music movement.

“Athlone hosted the third Fleadh back in 1953,” Jim said. “There was a very vibrant branch here for many years.”

However, in more recent decades, the branch experienced challenges. Over a number of years before 2023, activity had declined as older members who had kept the organisation running began to step back, while fewer young people were becoming involved.

According to Athlone Comhaltas Chairperson Ellen Glennon, the revival of the branch was built on years of dedication from those who kept it alive during quieter times.

She paid particular tribute to Tom Shine, who continued to support the branch when activity had dwindled.

“Tom has kept the Athlone branch going over the last few years,” she said.

“For a while it was almost a one-man show, but thanks to people like Tom, we had something to build on when new members came in during 2023.”

A turning point came when efforts began to reform and revitalise the Athlone branch. The timing coincided with the Fleadh Cheoil taking place in nearby Mullingar, providing an opportunity to reconnect the town with the wider Comhaltas community.

The renewed branch quickly became the driving force behind the creation of Féile na Sionainne, giving Athlone a new platform to celebrate traditional music and culture.

Since then, rebuilding youth involvement has been a major focus. The branch has worked to introduce children to traditional music, organise lessons and create opportunities for young musicians to perform.

Membership has more than doubled, with regular music lessons and monthly sessions now taking place throughout the year.

"There are so many young musicians, dancers and singers in Athlone and the surrounding areas,” Ellen said.

“Before, many of them had to travel to branches in Moate, Ballymore, or Roscommon. Now they have the opportunity to learn, perform and be part of a thriving branch in their own town.”

Looking ahead, Athlone Comhaltas hopes to host the Leinster Fleadh in 2029, with the long-term ambition of bringing Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann back to Athlone for the first time since 1953.

The revival of Athlone Comhaltas has also strengthened the town’s wider cultural offering. Through Féile na Sionainne, the branch now plays a central role in bringing music into public spaces, supporting local performers and showcasing Athlone’s heritage.

Ellen praised local GAA clubs which have opened their facilities for monthly music sessions free of charge, helping to bring traditional music into communities across the wider Athlone area.

She also praised local businesses, including Shamrock Lodge Hotel, The Bounty, members of the local Vintners Association, sponsors and neighbouring Comhaltas branches, all of whom have played an important role in the continued growth.

With a renewed membership, a growing base of young musicians, and a major annual festival now firmly established, Athlone Comhaltas is once again becoming a key part of the cultural life of the town.