Launch of CDs of traditional Irish songs by the late Josie McKelvey

A celebration of the life of the late Fintown musician, Josie McKelvey incorporating music, song and dance will take place on Saturday week, February 11.

It will start at 8.15pm in Fintown Hall following his first anniversary Mass in Teach Pobail Cholmcille Naofa, Baile na Finne at 7.30pm.

This night will also feature the launch of two CDs of traditional Irish and English songs as interpreted by Josie recorded in December 2020.

Josie was born in 1941 and lived most of his life in Fintown where he and his wife Margaret raised a family of five. They were both enthusiastic about the Irish Language and culture and encouraged young and old to celebrate that culture through Irish music, song and dance.

In later years, Josie hosted many traditional song and music sessions in ‘Teach A Cheoil’ and these were always well attended by musicians, singers and dancers from near and far.

Josie had a large repertoire of songs, some of which he had learned as a young boy at school. He believed that he had a responsibility to preserve these songs for future generations so that they would not be forgotten.

In early winter 2020 Josie set about recording two CDs, one in English and another as Gaeilge. He intended to launch the CDs soon after the Covid restrictions were lifted.

He was very pleased to have recorded the CDs and was looking forward to organising the launch.

Sadly Josie passed away in February 2022 due to Covid related complications.

His family now endeavours to do as Josie wished, launch the CDs and share the songs at home and abroad with any proceeds raised to go towards Cancer Care West.

"Josie’s family would like to sincerely thank all those who visited Teach a’ Cheoil over the years and who supported him in bringing this CD to you. They invite you to come and celebrate his life with music, song and dance. Everyone is welcome to join in. Bigí linn," said a family spokesperson.