By Dan Walsh at Chadwicks Wexford Park
History was made today at Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford town as 2,516 musicians shattered the Guinness World Record for the most tin whistles played simultaneously. The successful record-breaking attempt took place at Chadwicks Wexford Park GAA Stadium this afternoon. Tunes played were The Boys of Wexford and The Dawning of the Day.
The event drew participants from across the globe, including the USA, China, and Australia, showcasing the widespread international impact of Irish traditional music. Craig Glenday, Editor-in-Chief of Guinness World Records, was flown in to adjudicate the attempt officially.
The new record of 2,516 musicians playing tin whistles continuously for five minutes established today -August 8th 2024 – surpassed the previous record of 1,015 players rendering ‘The Dawning of the Day’ at an event organised by Scoil Acla (Ireland) in Keel, Achill Island, on July 31st 2010.
Speaking on the achievement, Catherine Roche, lead instructor for the ensemble, said; “We’re thrilled to have broken the previous record – it’s truly a testament to the power of music and community. We’ve spent months teaching people, from kids to people in their eighties, and the journey to today has been nothing short of inspiring. Thanks to everyone who took part!”
Eddie Taaffe, Chairperson of the Wexford Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee, said; “Today’s success is a perfect embodiment of this year’s theme: ‘A Fleadh For All’. We’ve brought people together from all corners of the globe and all walks of life to celebrate our rich cultural heritage and make a mark on history. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
The record attempt is one of the highlights of this year’s festival, which is expected to draw over half a million visitors to the Sunny South-East before its ends on August 11th.
The festival, organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and hosted by the local Fleadh Executive Committee, is kindly supported by Wexford County Council, Fáilte Ireland, and Wexford Credit Union. RTÉ and TG4 will once again act as broadcast and live broadcasting partners, respectively.
For a full rundown of all the exciting events happening this week in Wexford for Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, click here.
WexfordLocal.com 