Big success for small Kildare village at 2026 Leinster Fleadh Cheoil

Kilteel Comhaltas in Co Kildare marked its milestone 25th anniversary with a remarkable showing at the 2026 Leinster Fleadh Cheoil, delivering one of the branch's strongest performances in its history and showcasing the depth of young and senior musical talent within the community.

This year saw a record number of qualified entrants from the branch, with more than 60 participants competing across solo and group categories.

Six talented musicians and performers from Kilteel will now progress to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which takes place in Belfast from August 2 to August 9.

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The branch's grupaí cheoil entries were a particular highlight, with two Under-12 groups, featuring musicians as young as nine, qualifying at county level to perform at the Leinster competition. They were joined by two 12-15 groups and a senior band, demonstrating the branch's commitment to nurturing musicians of all ages and abilities.

Among the standout achievements was senior performer Felim Mac Donnacha, who claimed first place in both Newly Composed Irish Songs and Irish Singing. Felim will now aim to secure the All-Ireland Senior Irish Singing title for a third consecutive year when he competes in Belfast next month.

Ruben Moore enjoyed a highly successful competition, winning Leinster titles in both Fiddle and Fiddle Slow Airs in the 15-18 age category.

In the Under-12 Singing competition, sisters Doireann and Róise Brennan impressed judges, with Doireann crowned Leinster Champion and nine-year-old Róise securing third place.

Elsewhere, Mark Madden claimed second place in Piano in the 12-15 age category, while Margot Ní Mhórda earned second place in Irish Singing in the same age group. Tristan Breslin achieved second place in Under-12 Flute, and Issabella Ryan placed third in Under-12 Uilleann Pipes, continuing Kilteel's proud tradition in piping.

Branch Chairperson and co-founder Mary Ryan praised the achievements of all involved.

"This Leinster Fleadh was a landmark moment for Kilteel Comhaltas. To see so many of our musicians, from seven-year-olds to seasoned performers, take to the Leinster stage with such confidence and joy is deeply rewarding.

"Our branch was founded to keep our music and culture alive, and this year's results show that the tradition is not only thriving but growing stronger in our 25th year. We have a lovely community around the branch in Kilteel and I wish everyone competing in the All-Ireland Fleadh competition in Belfast this year every success and I really hope they enjoy the experience, which is the most important thing of all."

As Kilteel Comhaltas celebrates 25 years of fostering Irish music, song and culture, the branch now looks ahead to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann with pride, excitement and a renewed commitment to supporting its musicians at every stage of their musical journey.

For further information or to join Kilteel Comhaltas, contact [email protected].