.At Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann this week, 2,516 people came together to break the record for the most tin whistles played simultaneously, smashing the previous record which stood at 1,015 players.
The event took place at Chadwicks Wexford Park GAA Stadium in the small town of Castlebridge, where the original record was set back in 1951.
Musicians from across the world took part in the record-breaking effort, including players from America, Australia and China.
Editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records, Craig Glenday was flown over to the small town to officially adjudicate the event.
Catherine Roche, who was the lead instructor for the players said she was absolutely “thrilled” to break the record.
Roche had spent months preparing the players for the event - “from kids to people in their eighties, and the journey to today has been nothing short of inspiring” she said.
“It’s truly a testament to the power of music and community,”
“We’ve brought people together from all corners of the globe and all walks of life to celebrate our rich cultural heritage and make a mark on history,” said Eddie Taffe, Chairperson of the Wexford Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee
The record-breaking success was “a perfect embodiment of this year’s theme: ‘A Fleadh For All” he added.
The Wexford Fleadh began last sunday and will run for a full week before ending on the 11th of August. Organisers have anticipated that up to half a million people will travel to Wexford this week to enjoy the music and festivities.
