Clonmel welcomes 250,000 Fleadh fans

A Co Tipperary town came alive with the sound of traditional Irish music tonight as the 53rd Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann got off to a roaring start.

Clonmel was awash with colour as it prepared to greet up to a 250,000 visitors, all eager to play a part in what has become one of Europe’s biggest cultural festivals.

Some 10,000 musicians from across the world will descend on the town throughout the weekend to entertain crowds with both setpiece events and impromptu street performances.

Eamon O’Cuiv, Minister for Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, said traditional music and culture had become recognisable as one of the great symbols of Ireland throughout the world.

As he opened the event he expressed support for the ever-changing face of Irish music. “Innovation is important for traditional music and is the sign of a lively and vibrant people,” he said.

“Traditional music is very important but it is an acquired taste and can be hard to understand. Unless you allow change, experiment with new instruments and develop it becomes very stagnant – it’s good to embrace a wider audience.”

While the lively atmosphere always guarantees a memorable event, the fleadh still centres on 150-plus music and singing competitions.

Mr O’Cuiv’s department donates an annual grant of 500,000m euro (£350,000) to the popular event, which the minister described as “money very well spent.”

He added: “People sometimes question the state’s investment in culture and Irish arts but I strongly believe that while very important in their own right, economically they are essential.

“Irish music is one of the most instantly recognisable symbols of the country and is therefore vital when it comes to selling the Irish product abroad. Our culture is a hugely important economic marketing tool.

“The fleadh is all about the buzz of the event, people playing music in every corner, on ever street. It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear traditional music as it should be heard.” More than 10,500 bed-and-breakfasts and almost every hotel in Clonmel and surrounding towns are expected to be fully booked out to accommodate visitors.

This year marks the fifth time the people of Clonmel have hosted the fleadh, which prides itself on celebrating traditional music, dance and language.

It is expected to bring an estimated €15m to the town not including thousands generated in revenue from accommodation.