In 1987 a group of set dancers in Kilkenny city formed the Marble City Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. Music classes began with just two teachers initially. Music and dance classes continued and as interest grew so did our branch membership and the variety of lesson on offer to our members. We now have several teachers teaching a variety of instruments as well dance teachers for set and sean nós dancing. Our members compete at County, Provincial and All Ireland Fleadhanna each year.
During the 1990s as branches were encouraged to incorporate the Irish version in their branch name we changed our branch name to become Craobh Osraí – Marble City Branch.
In addition to classes we hold regular sessions, concerts and workshops for our members. Visitors to Kilkenny during the summer season delight in attending our traditional entertainment evenings.
We also get involved with events to celebrate Heritage Week, Culture Night, Seachtain na Gaeilge, St. Patrick’s Day, Crinniú na nÓg and other fund-raising and charity events. And our senior and junior entertainment groups have enjoyed cultural trips to many parts of the world.
Over the years we are proud to have hosted Ceol and Gheimhridh Leinster and All-Ireland finals, Kilkenny County Fleadhanna, Leinster Fleadh Cheoil and Comhaltas Concert Tours. Members of our branch have served on Kilkenny County Boards, Provincial Council and Ard-Comhairle.
In 2018 as we celebrated our 30th Anniversary which was acknowledged by the Mayor of Kilkenny at a reception hosted at the City Hall. We are proud to look back on 30 years of activities which have contributed to the preservation and promotion of Irish Culture.
