The Laichtín Naofa Céilí Band is a former céilí band based in Milltown Malbay, County Clare, Ireland.
History In 1951, the Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann was founded. This organisation established many local branches, including one in Milltown Malbay. Soon after its foundation, it formed the Laichtín Naofa Céilí Band.Come to an Irish Dance PartyJunior Crehan of Balymackea BegJunior Crehan: The Soul of Clare The band existed from 1954 to 1962.Dal gCais Vol 3 -1977 Junior Crehan of Balymackea Beg
It served both the parishes of Kilfarboy (Milltown Malbay) and Kilmurry Ibrickane (Quilty, Mullagh, Coore). It took its name from St. Laichtín, to whom a Holy well is dedicated on the border of both parishes.
The band took part in several competitions, including the 1955 Fleadh Cheoil in Loughrea (3rd place), 1956 1958 Munster Championship in Longford (winner) 1959 Oireachtas na Gaeilge (winner).Come to an Irish Dance Party
The band was the successor of the Milford House Céilí Band (1937-1940s).Come to an Irish Dance PartyLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
Members Incomplete overview of musicians once playing with the band.
Fiddlers Paddy GalvinLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Junior CrehanJunior Crehan of Balymackea Beg James FlynnLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Christy DixonLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
Accordions Paddy Joe McMahonLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Michael Sexton Sr.Laichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
Uilleann Pipes Willie ClancyLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Martin TaltyLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
Flutes J C TaltyLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Josie HayesThey'll be Good Yet Michael FalseyLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CDMusic and Songs by the Sea
Banjo Jimmy WardLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
Double Bass Angela MerryLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
Piano Colm O'ConnorA building that houses many years of precious memories
Drums Martin MaloneLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Paddy MaloneLaichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD Aidan VaughanCome to an Irish Dance Party
Importance After the Public Dance Halls Act 1936, that outlawed the traditional country house dances, most musicians suddenly had no place to gather and play. The band was a community-based band in a rural tradition.
Junior Crehan described is importance as:
Recordings LP Come to an Irish Dance Party, 1959Come to an Irish Dance Party
CD's Come to an Irish Dance Party, 2008. A re-issue of the historic recording of 1959 digitally re-mastered.Laichtín Naofa Céilí Band CD
See also The Kilfenora Céilí Band The Tulla Céilí Band
References
External links Around The Floor & Mind The Dresser (YouTube)