Burren Visitor Centre
Kilfenora Céilí Band
Exhibition

The Kilfenora Céilí Band Exhibition is almost unique in the world as a comprehensive exhibition dedicated to living musical artists, and was opened by Ireland’s President in 2015.

An unique historical music experience

Musical instruments, photos, historical artefacts, explanatory panels and lively video provide a fascinating, educational and unforgettable introduction to an Irish traditional music treasure trove – North Clare and specifically the Kilfenora Céilí Band, 111 years old and still thrilling audiences and dancers with its combination of world-class musical skills and youthful energy.

History of The Kilfenora Céilí Band.

Kilfenora is a small agricultural village in the Burren, that unique rock-desert in the west of Ireland. It’s a quiet place with a reputation for small scale farming and Gaelic football and, in many ways, an unlikely setting for a musical saga. To generations of Irish traditional music devotees, the village is known as the birthplace and home of Kilfenora Céilí Band.

The Kilfenora Ceili Band at the Mansion House with Bridie Gallagher

An enduring musical legacy.

Enduring many peaks and troughs since its formation in 1909, the group has almost died many times but rose phoenix-like from the ashes. This resilient group of musicians have managed, many times against the odds, to keep a culture not just alive – but alive and kicking. 2009, in particular, proved to be frenetic, what with an entire festival in their honour in March, the issuing of a new landmark album called Century, and numerous high profile events including their documentary on national television.

The Current Kilfenora Céilí Band

The exhibition celebrates Irish music culture.

On Friday 20 March 2015, President Michael D. Higgins and Mrs Sabina Higgins visited Kilfenora to open formally the Kilfenora Céilí Band Parlour – a permanent multi-media exhibition located in The Burren Centre that tells the story of North Clare music and its internationally famous traditional music band (106 years old and counting!)

Michael D. Higgins and Mrs Sabina Higgins at Burren Centre

Discover Tradition

A visit to the Burren Centre gives you the insight, information and inspiration before any adventure to the Burren.

Get Your Exhibit Tickets Today!