Ceolfhoireann Thraidisiúnta Mhúscraí are an exciting new project by CCÉ Niall Ó Cathasaigh. A vibrant young traditional orchestra from Ballincollig in County Cork, CTM is comprised of students and members of the Ballincollig branch of Comhaltas, Craobh Niall Ó Cathasaigh, Baile 'n Chollaigh. Founded by directors Caroline Uí Chathasaigh and Brian Ó Broin to celebrate the branch’s 50th anniversary, the orchestra brings together 48 talented musicians aged 10–20 performing a wide range of traditional instruments. They rehearse weekly at Gaelscoil Uí Ríordáin (with thanks to principal Mícheál Ó Draighneáin) in Ballincollig.
The orchestra was made possible through the generous funding of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, whose support has helped establish and sustain this exciting initiative.
Since it’s formation September 2024, Ceolfhoireann Thraidisiúnta Mhúscraí has performed at the sold-out 50th Anniversary Celebration concert in Coláiste Choilm in Ballincollig, in Cork City Hall as part of Ceol Chorcaí, a celebration of Traditional Music and Dance as part of Cork City’s 2025 St. Patrick’s Festival, and at the 2025 Cork County Fleadh fundraising concert held in Ballincollig.
The orchestra’s repertoire spans traditional dance tunes, the ancient harp music of Turlough O'Carolan, alongside traditional folk and sean nós songs arranged for voice and orchestra. Many performances combine the music with live Irish dance, adding an exciting new layer of performance. A key aim is to highlight new compositions by founding member of the branch and master teacher and composer Mr. Martin Power. In January 2025, CTM performed the Coming of Age Suite, a newly composed suite of music by Martin Power especially for the branch’s 50th anniversary. All pieces are arranged by the directors, blending innovative ideas and subtle outside influences while always allowing the melody to soar.
2026 saw the orchestra rise to new heights. CTM kicked off January with Ceol an Phaoraigh, a concert held on the 31st January in Coláiste Choilm in Ballincollig, celebrating and presenting the selected compositions of Mr. Martin Power. It's here that the orchestra debuted the brand new Cumhacht an Cheoil Suite, arranged and produced by Orchestra Directors Caroline Uí Chathasaigh and Brian Ó Broin, comprising of all original compositions of Mr. Power.
February saw the orchestra perform in their biggest venue yet - The National Concert Hall in Dublin. Featured as part of the IAYO 30th Festival of Irish Youth Orchestras, CTM opened the evening Concert and received a rousing standing ovation in our Nation's Capital.
March saw CTM returning to Cork City Hall for Ceol Chorcaí 2026, and were invited by the Kerry County Board of Comhaltas to produce a full Headline show of our own in the Dúchas Comhaltas Centre in Tralee, which subsequently sold out, and was extremely well received, once again bringing another audience to their feet for a standing ovation. CTM showcased all aspects of Irish tradition, including storytelling, song, dance, and instrumental music.
With its youthful energy, rich repertoire, and dedication to Irish tradition, Ceolfhoireann Thraidisiúnta Mhúscraí are quickly establishing itself as an exciting ambassador for the music, song, and culture of Ireland.