Carlow's Ceolway 2025 connects River Barrow towns through music

A COMMUNITY music initiative will wind its way along the River Barrow this summer, connecting Carlow towns through shared musical experiences.

Carlow’s Ceolway 2025 will journey from Doyle’s Ice Cream Parlour at the Royal Oak in Bagenalstown to Moka Coffee Company in Haymarket, Carlow town, offering residents a chance to socialise and participate in music-making during daytime hours at participating coffee shops.

The project is the brainchild of community musician Angela Keogh, who conceived the idea in 2022 following an outdoor music practice session for Carlow’s Fringe Festival at An Gairdín Beo in Carlow town. “Playing music together without the pressure of performance is like having a cup of tea,” said Ms Keogh.

The positive experience inspired her to pursue formal training in community music and she is currently completing an MA in Community Music at the World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick.

The initiative has secured backing from Carlow County Council and Creative Places Bagenalstown. Laura Kelly, Carlow’s development officer, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s launch, highlighting how it offers people opportunities to connect with neighbours in their community.

Each Ceolway event will begin and end with participatory music-making activities, welcoming those who wish to play or sing traditional music, folk music or even original compositions. The project also promises appearances by guest musicians throughout the summer.

The weekly sessions will begin at Doyle’s Ice Cream Parlour on Friday mornings from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Organisers emphasise the inclusive nature of the gatherings, noting that participants don’t need to play instruments and there’s no pressure to perform. Attendees are welcome to join for conversation and may leave whenever they choose.