Presentation of the Gradam Seirbhíse awards as part of the official opening of the Tipperary Fleadh Cheoil in Roscrea. Front, from left: John Harnett, Elaine O’Dwyer, Sonia Bonelli, Teresa Shelley (award recipient), Ellen O’Dwyer, Marie Harnett. Back: Joe Doyle, John Crowe, Margaret Redmond, Louise McNamara, Ann Crowe, Joanne Hughes O’Brien, Fergus O’Dwyer, Paddy O’Dwyer.

Volunteerism proudly on show in Roscrea

Published:

The Gradam Awards Ceremony held in Muintir na Tíre Hall, Roscrea, as part of Fleadh Cheoil Tipperary 2026, was a celebration of outstanding voluntary contribution to Irish traditional music, culture, and community life. Organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (Tipperary), the event took place on Friday, May 15, in Roscrea.

Four individuals were honoured with Gradam Seirbhíse awards in recognition of their lifelong dedication and service:

Ann Feehan (Roscrea) – A long-standing and active member of the Roscrea Comhaltas branch since the late 1990s, Ann played a key role in supporting young musicians, organising uniforms, documenting events through photography, and representing the branch at county level for over a decade.

Teresa Shelley (Cashel – A committed Comhaltas volunteer and Vice Chairperson of her branch, Teresa has contributed through dancing, support, fundraising, and stewardship at numerous events, as well as performing with Brú Ború and touring internationally.

Anne Keevey (Roscrea) – Recognised not only for her links to Comhaltas heritage but also for her wider community impact, Anne founded Age Friendly Roscrea, fostering inclusion and support for older people. Her lifelong dedication to care, community, and culture has left a lasting legacy.

Pat Flanagan (Roscrea) – A musician and educator, Pat has been central to Comhaltas in Roscrea for decades, serving in leadership roles and teaching generations of young musicians. His influence is widely felt across Tipperary and beyond through his work at local, county, and national levels.

Overall, the ceremony highlighted the importance of volunteerism in sustaining Irish cultural traditions. Each recipient was praised for their unwavering commitment, to ensuring that music, dance, and community spirit continue to thrive in Roscrea and throughout Tipperary.

Published: