Traditional Singing Circle - Phil Rooney CCÉ Trad Weekend

Traditional Singing Circle - Phil Rooney CCÉ Trad Weekend

Join us for an afternoon of traditional singing at The Thatch Pub, as part of the Phil Rooney CCÉ Trad Weekend! Celebrating traditional Irish songs in the welcoming atmosphere of a Donegal Singing Circle, hosted by the renowned Rita Gallagher and Shauna Mullin, alongside many talented singing friends and special guests. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or simply love to listen, this is going to be a great event.

This event is free of charge.

Rita Gallagher is a renowned traditional singer from Ballymacahill, near Frosses, County Donegal. She is celebrated for her deep knowledge and emotive renditions of Irish traditional songs. Her unaccompanied singing is characterized by clarity, intricate ornamentation, and heartfelt expression, making her a beloved figure in traditional music circles.

Rita has achieved notable success in her singing career, including multiple All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil titles and winning TG4’s Gradam Ceoil Traditional Singer of the Year award in 2017. She has also released acclaimed albums such as Easter Snow and The May Morning Dew.

Known for her generosity in sharing songs and encouraging others in the tradition, Rita Gallagher remains a leading figure in preserving and promoting Donegal’s rich singing heritage, earning her place as one of Ireland’s finest traditional singers.

Shauna Mullin is a traditional singer from Ballyshannon, County Donegal, known for her powerful voice and deep connection to Irish singing traditions. She credits much of her style and repertoire to her family, including her granduncle, the legendary Paddy Tunney.

Shauna won an All-Ireland title in English language song in 1999 and was a finalist in Music Network’s Young Musicwide Award in 2005. She earned her MA in Irish Traditional Music Performance from the University of Limerick and has performed at notable venues, including the Royal Opera House with Luke Daniels.

In addition to her solo career, Shauna has performed with The David Munnelly Band and released her debut solo album, The Wishing Tree. She continues to perform and record, featuring as a guest artist on many albums, further solidifying her strong ties to Donegal’s singing tradition.

Rita and Shauna will be joined by friends and special guests. We warmly welcome any singers who would like to come along and participate. This session is open to all and will follow the traditional, informal, and casual format, where everyone can take turns singing, listening, and joining in as the session unfolds. We’re all really looking forward to it!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Thatch Pub, Bishop Street, Ballyshannon, Ireland