Lyn Crumlish's Blog

“I first knew of St Roch's and the Irish Minstrels branch when I was in primary school, around 9 or 10 when we visited my cousins, the McGinley family. They all used to play traditional Irish music. I loved listening to them play in the house. I come from an Irish background and always believed Irish music, language and culture was an essential part of my identity. 

It wasn't until I was married and had a child myself that I started going up to the classes, that was 25 years ago. I thought it was important to pass my Irish heritage on to the next generation. I believe in preservation of heritage and culture through active participation. 

I began to become more involved with the operations of the branch through attending the AGM each year as it was an important part of being a branch member. I thought it was vital to be informed about what's happening within my branch, eg, competition information, fleadh dates and places, concerts, fundraising. I volunteered myself as PRO a good number of years ago and haven't looked back. 

This year we recently celebrated the first cultural St Patrick's parade which focused on the successes of musicians, dancers and sportspeople within the Irish community in Glasgow. It was a big historical moment for the city. Glasgow has a backdrop of tension with Irish communities and I believe celebrations like these will help create more harmony. It was a phenomenal experience and one I won't ever forget. I can't explain the sense of pride myself and all the other marching band members felt in leading the parade through the streets and being cheered and clapped en route. I always felt a great sadness that Glasgow never did have a St Patrick's day parade like so many other cities around the UK, and indeed the world. So this was a very special occasion and one I hope grows in size and popularity with each year that passes.                                                                

We are incredibly fortunate to have so many hard working members on our committee and within the branch as a whole. The branch has grown considerably since I started coming up with my kids, but especially in the past few years, which is testament to the musicianship, talent, ethos and vitality we have encased in Irish Minstrels. Also the wonderful sense of family which is a huge factor in its success.

The branch is a reflection of the thriving Irish culture in Glasgow and I hope that our outreach to our communities helps create relationships. The joys of Irish music, dance, sports, language and culture is to create a place for people to come, laugh and become friends.”