Sunday, May 11th is set to be a landmark day in Donegal’s musical and cultural life, as Idir an Dá Ghaoth—Ireland’s first-ever Fife Orchestra—takes to the stage in Dungloe as part of the Donegal Fleadh. This unique event will be held at 7pm in Rosses Community School Sports Hall, and it promises to be one of the most moving and meaningful musical performances the county has ever seen.
At its heart, Idir an Dá Ghaoth is a celebration of over 150 years of the Rosses flute and marching band tradition, told through original music composed and conducted by Dr. Martin Tourish of Altán. The orchestra is made up of more than 80 musicians and singers, including fluters from every single marching band across the Rosses—from Annagry and Ranafast to Maghery, Meenacross, Keadue, Crickamore, and Mullaghduff—joined by professional musicians from across the country and a specially formed multi-harmony choir of local voices.
The Living Story of a Musical Tradition
This isn’t just a concert—it’s a living, breathing story. The performance will journey through time, from the famine era and the early days of fifing in the region, right through the golden age of band parades and All-Ireland competitions, up to the present day.
In a video preview, the emotion behind the project is clear. “You’re not just playing for yourself—you’re carrying the legacy of those who went before us,” one participant says. Another adds, “It’s who we are. It’s in our blood.”
The music and narration will weave these voices and stories together into a performance that resonates far beyond the stage.
It’s a day that celebrates the past, present and future of the fife tradition—and one that truly brings the community together.
A Vision Brought to Life
One of the driving forces behind the project is organiser Karl Doherty, who spoke passionately about the significance of Idir an Dá Ghaoth after the Easter Sunday Marching Band Competition in Dungloe:
“This is something we’ve never seen before—a united fife orchestra made up of members from every band in the Rosses, telling our story in a completely new way. It’s a celebration of who we are and where we’ve come from, and it’s about making sure that tradition stays strong for the next generation. We’re incredibly proud of what’s being created here.”
The event is being presented by A Teach Ceoil, in partnership with Ealaín na Gaeltachta and Fleadh Cheoil Dhún na nGall.
Be Part of History
Whether you’ve played in a band, followed the parades, or simply love good music with deep roots, Idir an Dá Ghaoth is something you’ll want to experience. It’s a powerful reflection of identity, community, and the lasting magic of music passed down through generations.
Tickets are available now at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/idir-an-da-ghaoth-tickets-1267770879829?aff=oddtdtcreator
Other events at Donegal Fleadh
The day will begin with a competitive element, as marching bands from across Donegal gather in Dungloe at 1pm to compete in the first qualification stage for the Ulster Fleadh. This will be followed by a colourful parade at 2pm, showcasing the energy, precision and tradition of these bands in their finest form