World renowned musician Sharon Shannon opens west Mayo summer school

WORLD renowned Irish musician Sharon Shannon officially opened Scoil Acla 2025 on Sunday evening last in Óstán Oileán Acla, launching a special week that marks the 40th anniversary of the revival of the summer school in 1985.

The week began with a special Mass broadcast live on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, followed by the official opening which featured performances from the Golden Eagle Pipe Band, Siansa Gael Linn winners Seoda, and this year’s Artist in Residence, Tom Doherty. The evening was rounded off with a sold-out, show-stopping concert by Sharon Shannon and her band, which set the tone for what promises to be a vibrant and memorable week ahead.

Classes got underway on Monday morning across the island, with students of all ages taking part in music, Gaeilge, creative writing and more. That evening, a large crowd gathered for a lecture by Dr Edward King on the life and work of Darrell Figgis, an important figure in Achill’s political and cultural history.

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On Tuesday, a sold-out Tráth na gCeist (table quiz) will bring the community together for what promises to be a lively and entertaining night. Wednesday will feature a flute and whistle masterclass at 2.30pm with Des Cafferkey, former Artist in Residence. A special storytelling workshop will take place at Keel Community Hall that evening, followed by the annual recital in St Thomas’s Church at 8.30pm. The night continues with session trails and adult-only sessions across local pubs.

Celebration

THURSDAY will see the colourful Hata Acla Competition return to Ted’s in Cashel from 5.30pm, followed by the major 40th anniversary celebration event, “Scoil Acla – 40 Bliain ar Aghaidh”, which will also see a presentation to Paddy Ryan, alongside the launch of his new book of tunes which will be officiated by Comhaltas President, Attracta Brady, this special event takes place in Óstán Oileán Acla at 8pm with refreshments served from 6.30pm.

On Friday, classes and workshops continue, including a drumming workshop in Gielty’s. The week’s Festival Concert will take place in the Wavecrest at 8pm featuring Scoil Acla tutors and friends and is expected to draw a large crowd as always.

Saturday will close out the week with the annual Aeríocht outdoor concert at Lourdie’s, in Dooagh at 12 noon, featuring performances and participation from tutors, students, and the wider community - a fitting end to what promises to be one of Scoil Acla’s most memorable years to date.

Special year

SPEAKING at the opening, Sarah Calvey, Cathaoirleach of Scoil Acla, said:

“This is a special year for Scoil Acla - 40 years since the revival of our summer school in 1985. It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, but also to look ahead. The energy, talent and pride shown by everyone taking part this week, from tutors and students to our guests and volunteers - proves that our culture is not just alive, but thriving. Scoil Acla has always been about community, creativity and connection, and it’s heartening to see those values stronger than ever. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built here together in Achill,” she said.

Trad sessions and more take place across the island for all ages and abilities. Full programme details are available in Scoil Acla’s official programme which is on sale locally and at events throughout the week. Follow Scoil Acla on social media to keep up-to-date.