Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann honours Mayo islander with lifetime achievement award

A MAYO man who has dedicated his life to the promotion of traditional Irish music has been honoured with a prestigious lifetime achievement award.

Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann bestowed a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award upon Achill man John ‘Twin’ McNamara in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Irish traditional music, culture and community life. The Gradam na hÉigse award was presented by Coiste Scoil Acla in a special ceremony this week at John’s home.

A native of Dooagh on Achill Island, John 'Twin' McNamara has been one of the main driving forces behind the promotion and revival of traditional Irish music on the island.

The honour comes as 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of the revival of Scoil Acla, the celebrated summer school of Irish traditional arts, which John, alongside his wife Mary, Tommy 'The Boley' McNamara, Father John Cosgrave and many dedicated locals, brought back to life in 1985. Since its revival, Scoil Acla has flourished, becoming a beacon of cultural preservation and artistic expression in Achill and beyond.

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Sarah Calvey, Cathaoirleach of Scoil Acla CCÉ, praised John’s lifelong dedication, stating: “John Twin McNamara has been the heartbeat of Scoil Acla for four decades. His unwavering commitment to the promotion of our language, music and heritage has left an indelible mark not just on Achill, but on the wider traditional arts community. This award is a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy will inspire generations to come.”

Under John’s stewardship and vision, Scoil Acla has grown from modest beginnings into a nationally and internationally recognised celebration of Irish tradition, attracting artists, musicians and learners from across the globe each summer.

“The Gradam na hÉigse award is one of the highest honours within the Comhaltas organisation and stands as a testament to John’s enduring impact, not only as a custodian of tradition, but as a cultural leader whose work has ensured the vitality and relevance of traditional music, song and heritage for years to come,” Ms Calvey concluded.