Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (Society of Irish Musicians in English), refers to an organisation in Ireland which is dedicated to the promotion of the music, song, dance and language of Ireland. It was founded in 1951 by a group of traditional pipers who felt that the Irish musical tradition was on the decline. In Ireland, the organisation is often abbreviated to Comhaltas.

Comhaltas, today, is responsible for organising the annual national Irish music competition or Fleadh Ceoil. Usually held in August, the 2005 event was held in Letterkenny, County Donegal. It also provides tuition and accreditation in traditional music performance, music instruction and dance.

Comhaltas has over 400 branches in many countries throughout the world.