Community notes Feb 24th
February 21, 2024
Courtmacsherry Rhythms
The first performance of Courtmacsherry Rhythms by Maire Ni Dhuibhir was held in Courtmacsherry on the occasion of the naming of the new lifeboat, The Val Adnams on the 10th of September 2023. Chief among the performers were CantairiChonamara from Clifden and Music Matters from Loughrea. As Courtmacsherry Lifeboat is approaching its 200th birthday, a repeat performance of the work is planned to celebrate the historic event. Maire has suggested that on this occasion that the vocal parts, soloists and choir would be principally performed by local singers. She has planned that the work will be introduced at a day workshop in April followed by a “top up” in late Autumn. The celebratory week-end will be held in 2025 with final rehearsals being organised prior to that.
The work includes a lament for The Lusitania victims, a setting of Tigh Molaga, the much- acclaimed poem by Carbery poet Sean O’Coileain set in Timoleague Abbey together with a setting of a nostalgic poem on a fun-filled Regatta Day by local poet Michael O’Brien. Three solo/duet pieces, celebrating the landscape of the village and surrounding area connect the work thematically and musically. A dedicated Lifeboat song celebrating the rescue of The Supertaff by the local lifeboat in 1998 will also feature as will a setting of a rousing rowing poem from the 7th. century by St. Columban while the work ends with a traditional song of the sea, culminating with audience participation in the finale of the suite.
Maire will hold a workshop on Saturday 6th. of April in Courtmacsherry Community Centre. An open invitation is extended to all who may be interested in partaking in this musical event. Further information can be had by contacting:Ann O’Donovan (087) 8509898; Angela Veldman (086) 4542185; Marian O’Brien (086) 3458764 or Jane Murphy (087) 2488405.
Tidy Towns Report
The following are the concluding remarks from the adjudicators 2023 report on Timoleague.
Residential Streets: The houses throughout the village are a rainbow of wonderful colourseach individual but all complimenting the others. As in every village one or two appear derelict but with the passing of time, no doubt they will be moved on and upgraded. It is understood that the Tidy Towns committee can only do so much to encourage the upgrading of privately owned properties.
Approach Roads, Streets and Lanes: The main approach road is such a lovely drive andarriving to Timoleague, one is struck by how pleasant and natural the approach is. The newwelcome stones, made from local stone, are a great addition on the approach roads and onepresumes that they will have some colourful perennial planting in due course. There isextensive vegetation along all of the roads especially at this time of year but none impededvisibility or the signs. The stone walls with wild flowers popping through them were veryeffective and residences were very well kept with lovely planting schemes.
Concluding Remarks: This was a first visit to Timoleague for your adjudicator and it wassuch an enjoyable visit on a sunny afternoon in June. You are to be commended for yourexcellent work journey and can be justifiably proud of your village. Best wishes in the TidyTowns competition and keep up the good work.