Ballymena Cultural Directory

Portglenone CCE
  • Date of Formation: 22/08/1973
  • Number of Members: 20+
  • Category: Cultural

The Formation of Portglenone CCE Branch. Not many babies are conceived in a bog, but that was the case where the Portglenone Branch of C.C.E. was concerned. Devotees of traditional music returning from Listowel, where they had supported Ann O'Brien (R.I.P.) competing in the All Ireland Solo Fiddling Competition, were in the middle of the Bog Of Allen, when Colm O'Brien enthusing about the variety, the standard and the general excellence of the music heard that day, went on to wonder if it could ever happen in Portglenone. Fellow passengers Brian Quinn and Joe Clarke didn't see why not and thus the conception in the bog! The infant was born in October 1973 and the new baby branch was cared for by the caretaker group consisting of Colm O'Brien (in whose house the first meeting was held), Ann O'Brien, Matt McAteer, Edith Spiers, Brian Quinn and Willis Patton. The baptism took place in "The Wild Duck" in 1974 when at the first A.G.M. the infant branch was declared a fully-fledged member of Comhaltas

Frequently asked question

If I am interested in joining your group how do I go about it?

Contact us through the website or email.

Who is your group aimed at or who do you cater for?

Anyone can join!

Do I have to pay membership dues to join?

Yes membership is due but is a maximum of £15 per family or other rates for individuals.

Are there any ongoing expenses associated with membership e.g. materials, insurance, fees?

If you want to learn an instrument then fees for classes apply £35 per term for 12 lessons!

How often do you meet?

Twice weekly

Where do you meet?

Every Monday evening 7.00pm - 8.30pm in St Mary's Primary School for lessons/classes. Every Wednesday from 7.00pm - 8.00pm in The Wild Duck Inn for the junior sessions.

Is there any criteria potential members must meet in order to join the group? e.g. experience

No criteria to join!

What can I expect to learn if I join the group?

You can learn a range of instruments:
Fiddle
Tin Whistle
Flute
Guitar
Banjo
Accordion
Concertina

Can I join the group as an observer or must I actively participate?

You can join as an observer

What is the usual demographic of the group, gender, age group etc?

All ages and genders and creeds are members. NO restrictions!!

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Comments

What they say?

  • Lord Puttnam of Queensgate / CBE

    "Ballymena's Creative Citizens Programme is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to experience the Arts."

  • Liam Neeson / OBE, Freeman of Ballymena

    "Ballymena and the Borough have always had a deep creative 'pool' in all the arts. It's wonderful and, personally, exciting for me that this pool is being tapped into and explored by this wonderful creative alliance. I'm very proud of you all!"