Our Christmas season started with the annual Christmas Party, a great night of music and good cheer finishing up with a visit from Santa himself. The music this year was exceptional so congratulations to all those who came and played and Santa was in great form, not too stressed out about the big night ahead. He laughed and chatted with the children and gave little party bags to each one.
It’s a pity he is so busy this time of year that he didn’t make Thursday evening in Monkstown church. The much anticipated concert with Moya Brennan was as wonderful as ever. The place this concert has made for itself in the Christmas season was evident from the huge numbers who turned up for it, many of whom have no direct connection with the Craobh but love traditional music and Moya Brennan. Two Under 12 groups played with gusto and the Under 18s and Under 15s combined to give a polished performance that was a true reflection of their ability and commitment. Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh compered with her usual wit and charm making the evening flow and getting the best out of the children.
After the break Moya gave her magic concert that for many has become the beginning of Christmas. For Moya and the Craobh this was a bit of a family affair as her children Aisling and Paul, who not long ago were learning music in the Craobh, were in her band. Once again our thanks go to Moya and Tim for their generosity to the Craobh. Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without it.
Usually we don’t meet again until classes resume but this year Morgan organised a musical day out. We started with a long steep walk from the Blue Light pub to the Three Rock mountain which balanced out the Christmas dinner completely, followed by a session in the Blue Light. And on the grounds that you can never get enough music the session continued in his house where Carrie and Morgan very kindly provided food, hospitality and of course music. Many thanks to them both. I know that for many people it was one of the highlights of Christmas.
So here’s to 2013. Let’s hope it’s as good as 2012.