The Pan Celtic Fesitval’s national song contest took place in the George Bernard Shaw Theatre in Carlow town last night, where a song to represent Ireland was selected.
“Fághtha gan Freagraí”, composed by Aine Durkin and performed by Grainne Ni Fhathartha was the winner on the night, and will now represent Ireland at the international pan celtic festival, to be held in Carlow in April.
The winning song also received 1000 euros in Prize money, as well as the national pan celtic trophy.
On the night, 14 songs were performed, composed by writers from across the country, with one entrant having to pull out due to the adverse weather conditions.
In the end, the judging panel consisting of John Spillane, Louise Cantillon, and KCLR’s own Shannon Redmond decided that Durkin’s song, which centres on the unanswered questions that bereavement can leave behind, should represent Ireland.
Speaking to KCLR, event organiser Bride de roiste spoke about the song’s meaning, and how it impressed the judging panel, noting that “the song itself, it’s all about the sudden tragic loss of a loved one, and the impact that has on the family and the friends, which happens ever so often when people die suddenly”, before adding that “its a great song to have representing us, and we feel that it will have a great chance in the international contest in April.”
The 2025 International Pan Celtic Song Festival will be held in Carlow from the 22 – 26 April 2025, and will see entrants from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man competing for the top prize.
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