Building Connections Through Comhaltas Exchange Programmes

Over the past few months, Comhaltas branches across Britain have been enjoying a wonderful series of exchange programmes with branches in Ireland, bringing musicians together, fostering friendships, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. These visits are about much more than music - they’re about building connections with other musicians, sharing culture, and inspiring the next generation of traditional Irish musicians.

Leeds CCÉ Welcomes Belclare, Galway

In October, Leeds CCÉ had the pleasure of hosting junior musicians from the Belclare branch in Galway. The day was filled with music, games, and laughter, giving young musicians the chance to meet, collaborate, and form new friendships. A huge thank you goes to the Leeds Irish Centre for their warm hospitality. Leeds is already looking forward to a return visit to Belclare!

The group also visited Manchester, where students and teachers from Belclare performed at the Irish World Heritage Centre in Cheetham Hill. Musicians of all ages joined in a lively traditional music session, while anyone wishing to listen was warmly welcomed. These sessions not only strengthen musical skills but also help forge connections that often last a lifetime.

Liverpool CCÉ Hosts Sean Treacy CCÉ

Liverpool CCÉ hosted friends from Sean Treacy CCÉ during the Liverpool Irish Festival Family Day at the Museum of Liverpool. Junior musicians from both branches collaborated beautifully, sharing tunes and learning from one another. The weekend ended on a high note, with performances that delighted audiences and created memories and friendships that will endure. These exchanges show how music can connect generations and communities, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Edinburgh CCÉ Welcomes Ballinspittle CCÉ, Cork

In Edinburgh, members from CCÉ Ballinspittle were warmly welcomed by the Edinburgh branch. Highlights of their visit included a lively musical session at O’Connors pub, a shared tune-playing workshop with Edinburgh CCÉ, and a workshop with the talented TradSoc crew at Edinburgh University. Beyond the music, the group explored Edinburgh’s history and attractions, including a daring trip to The Edinburgh Dungeon and a few stops at the LEGO shop.

This visit perfectly combined musical collaboration, sightseeing, and plenty of craic, giving everyone the chance to build lasting connections and share unforgettable experiences.

Irish Minstrels CCÉ Visit Galway

Back in September, members of the Irish Minstrels branch travelled to Galway for a wonderful cultural exchange. Their St. Roch’s Big Band enjoyed a weekend filled with music, friendship, and laughter thanks to the hospitality of Lackagh CCÉ, supported by Eilidh’s Trust.

Eilidh’s Trust was established in memory of Eilidh, a talented young musician from the Isle of Barra whose life was tragically cut short. Eilidh’s love of music, especially playing the bagpipes, gave her confidence and joy, and the Trust supports young musicians in pursuing their passion for traditional music. Through initiatives like this exchange, the Trust helps foster connections, growth, and memorable experiences for the next generation of musicians.

Trips like these show how exchange programmes can create lifelong memories and meaningful relationships through music, keeping Eilidh’s love of music alive in communities across Ireland and Britain.

From Edinburgh to Liverpool, Leeds to Galway, these exchanges highlight the power of music to bring people together. Musicians young and old are not just learning tunes - they’re forming connections, sharing heritage, and building friendships that will last a lifetime.