Donegal County Council members have today agreed that one of Donegal’s most iconic bands will receive a civic reception.
Traditional Irish music band Altan will soon be honoured by the council in recognition of their achievements over 30 years.
The band have enjoyed international success throughout the decades, bringing a unique Donegal sound to their repertoire. Councillors agreed that they have also been excellent ambassadors for Donegal.
Glenties area Cllr John Seamais O Fearraigh said: “Altan are renowned worldwide, especially for their traditional music, but also their use of the Irish language.
“They have done a lot of concerts throughout the world, not only in America and Australia, but here as well, including Ghaoth Dobhair and places throughout Ireland.
“They have a lot of followers from other countries and are great ambassadors for the county and Irish language.”
Altan’s current members – Ciarán Curran, Martin Tourish, Dáithí Sproule, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Mark Kelly – released their newest studio album The Gap of Dreams in March 2018. They are currently finishing their USA/ Canada tour.
Singer and fiddler Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh will also receive a special honour at The Cup O’ Tae Festival in Ardara, Co Donegal on the May Bank Holiday weekend, in recognition for her work in promoting the song and fiddling tradition of her native county Donegal.
Councillors have also agreed to afford a civic reception to former Ireland rugby star Nora Stapleton.
Rugby ace Nora Stapleton to get Civic Reception from Donegal County Council
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