A Sold-Out Celebration of Music and Community – A Christmas Evening in the Abbey with Kate Heneghan & Friends
On Thursday, December 21st, 2024, Ballintubber Abbey was the setting for an unforgettable evening of festive music and heartfelt connection, “A Christmas Evening in the Abbey with Kate Heneghan & Friends.”
A completely sold-out event, this special concert was a highlight of the Christmas season. The Abbey’s remarkable acoustics and candlelit beauty provided the perfect backdrop for a night filled with warmth, tradition, and exceptional musical talent.
We were honoured to welcome Kate Heneghan, the 2023 Mayo Rose of Tralee, for her first-ever concert in her home county, a deeply meaningful homecoming for both artist and audience. A proud Castlebar native and gifted multi-instrumentalist, Kate captivated the audience with performances on harp, violin, and piano, accompanied by a gifted ensemble of musical family and friends.
Kate’s words on the night captured the emotional depth of the occasion:
“It’s so amazing to perform in this historic Abbey. This Abbey has great significance to me and my family and we have such fond memories from here. We love performing here, we do many weddings here, but tonight was just magnificent, something I will treasure forever.”
From the Sydney Opera House to Beijing’s National Centre for Performing Arts, Kate’s musical journey has taken her across the globe, but this night in Ballintubber was something special. Her love for the Abbey and its community shone through in every note.
A recipient of the Music Generation/U2 Exceptional Musician Award, Kate is not only a celebrated performer but also a passionate educator and co-founder of Westport Scoil Cheoil. Her deep ties to Mayo and to music made this a concert that touched hearts and celebrated home.
To everyone who joined us, thank you for making this night so magical. And to those who missed out, we hope to welcome you to another memorable event at Ballintubber Abbey soon.
This was truly a Christmas evening to remember, a gift to the parish and to music lovers everywhere.
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