In a spectacular display of unity and tradition, more than 2,500 musicians gathered at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann have set a new Guinness World Record for the most tin whistles played simultaneously for five minutes. The record, which now stands at 2,516 participants, was achieved at Chadwicks Wexford Park during the festival.
Participants, including school students, families, and festival attendees, performed renditions of “The Boys of Wexford” and “The Dawning of the Day March.” Craig Glenday, editor in chief of Guinness World Records, remarked on the significance of the event, noting, “There’s something that’s quite uniting about people coming together to play music anyway. But to do it with traditional musical instruments adds another layer. It’s a culturally significant thing for that community.”
Fleadh Cheoil 2024, running through Sunday in Wexford, features a diverse array of traditional Irish music competitions, sessions, dances, and exhibitions. This year’s theme, “A Fleadh for All,” encourages participation from individuals of all backgrounds and skill levels.
The tin whistle, a staple of Irish school life, proved to be the perfect choice for this record-breaking attempt. Glenday highlighted the instrument’s prominence, saying, “I didn’t realise tin whistles were such an inherent part of Irish school life. Everyone I’ve met says I’ve got one in the attic.”
Interestingly, the Guinness World Records idea itself has roots in Castlebridge, a village near Wexford. In 1951, Hugh Beaver, then managing director of Guinness Breweries, found himself in a debate about the fastest game bird during a hunt. Unable to resolve the dispute using available encyclopedias, Beaver envisioned a reference book that would settle such arguments. This led to the creation of what is now known as the Guinness World Records.
Catherine Roche, the lead instructor for the tin whistle ensemble, sees events like this as crucial for the preservation and promotion of traditional music. She has been actively involved in teaching students and has worked with the Castlebridge Tin Whistlers, accommodating a wide age range from five to ninety.
“It used to not be cool to play music,” Roche reflected. “I have three teenagers who play more sport than music. But it’s now cool to play music which is unbelievable for traditional musicians like us.”
Tommy O’Brien, a Meath native, also expressed his enthusiasm, noting how the event has brought together his family and community. His daughter Niamh, an Irish dancer married to Michael Flatley, and his wife, who has been preparing for this event for months, all participated in the festivities.
With more than half a million expected attendees and about 15,000 performers, dancers, singers, and storytellers, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann continues to celebrate and elevate Ireland’s rich musical heritage.
You Might Be Interested In:
