The famous “Donegal Piper” Christy Murray will be on full song ahead of Donegal’s All-Ireland Quarter-Final against Monaghan – but this time with a special twist.
In January, Christy retired from teaching after more than 40 years travelling across Donegal, teaching music and the tin whistle to thousands of students.
However there’s still no stopping the Raphoe man from following the Donegal footballers.
He has followed them along every step of their Ulster and All-Ireland journeys in the last 25 years with his trusty set of bagpipes, gaining national recognition as he has entertained the crowd before, during, and often after many of the county’s fixtures.
Donegal Piper Christy Murray.
However today’s clash with Monaghan will see a first”for the vastly-popular musician, as he is set to be joined at Croke Park by a bagpiper from the opposing side.
Christy will be joined pre-game by Lorna Sherry from the O’Neill Pipe Band in Clontibret, with an informal parade to be led by the two from the Croke Park Hotel, along Jones Road just outside the stadium itself.
He made the announcement via social media.
“Well folks, I am piping with a Monaghan piper (today),” Christy said.
“Lorna came up with the idea and I am delighted. Will add to the atmosphere. So if any fans from both teams are in the vicinity of the Croke Park Hotel about 3pm, could join a sort of parade along Jones Road.”Have plenty of flags, etc.”
“This is a first for me in 25 years… pressure on now!”