Mayo's top honour for renowned céilí band

On Thursday, July 24th, Mayo County Council awarded a civic reception to the Piper's Cross Céilí Band to recognise their achievement of being crowned the winners of the Senior Céilí Band Competition at the All-Ireland Fleadh in 2023.

The civic reception, hosted by the Cathaoirleach Cllr John O’Hara, marks the highest honour that the council can bestow and the Piper's Cross Céilí Band joins a select group of individuals who have received this prestigious accolade.

The Piper's Cross Céilí Band are a collection of 12 musicians from all over Mayo who first came together in 2019 and have gone from strength to strength ever since. Along with being a top-class musical group, they teach music, song, and dance right across the county and organise musical sessions to get young people involved in music.

Cllr O’Hara congratulated the group on being awarded a civic reception, saying: “Today is a celebration of the extraordinary achievements of the Piper's Cross Céilí Band. It is a recognition of your immense talents and a testament to your commitment to preserving and promoting our county's rich cultural heritage.

“The Piper's Cross Céilí Band is more than just a group of talented musicians; you are ambassadors for Mayo at home and abroad.

“Through your music, you weave a vibrant tapestry that brings together the heart and soul of our county and its traditions. Your commitment to sharing this tradition with the next generation is one of the truly inspiring things that you do.” 

Council chief executive Kevin Kelly added: “A civic reception is reserved for people and groups who have achieved extraordinary accolades and brought immense pride to the county.

“It is the greatest distinction that Mayo County Council can bestow upon its citizens and you are amongst a small handful of people to receive this honour. Congratulations to each of you.

“Your group is a true reflection of the county in its entirety with 12 members from places like Killala, Kilmovee, Achill, Hollymount and Belcarra to name but a few.

“The love of music, song and dance and sharing that love with everyone is what brought you together in the first place and it is that love that has seen you go on to achieve such phenomenal success.”