Fiddler takes a bow after Irish victory
A Fernhill Primary pupil became a part of history after winning a fiddle championship.
Talented musician Lauren Dunbar came first in her category at the All-Ireland Flead, held in Ennis.
The P7 pupil won the under-12 fiddle slow air after performing a piece called ‘The Fairest Rose’ and in the process became the first Scot to ever win that category.
Fernhill headteacher Dr Laura Murphy was delighted at the talented youngster’s success.
She said: “We have always known Lauren was a remarkable fiddle player and have enjoyed being entertained by her on many occasions and to learn that she has secured first place in the world championship was quite outstanding.
“We are immensely proud of Lauren and we wish her every success as she takes the world by storm in the years to come.”
Lauren won the All-Britain championships in London in June, which earned her a slot at the Flead.
This is regarded as a world championship of traditional music, with competitors who have qualified through their own countries and travelled to Ireland to compete for prestigious titles in various instruments.
Lauren’s fiddle teacher Louise Hunter was also extremely proud of her pupil’s achievement.
She said: “The standard of the competition was quite magnificent.
“The adjudicators gave their feedback, announcing that anyone in the theatre who had had the opportunity to hear the winner was very privileged as it was one of the most musical performances they had ever heard.
“They went on to describe how the performance made the hair on the back of their neck stand up and how they couldn’t believe such mature and emotional music came from someone so young.
“You can imagine our absolute delight when they said that the competitor they were talking about was our very own Lauren.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Lauren for winning the title and for her beautiful performance.
“She’s an absolute star, and I know becoming an AllIreland champion has been a dream for Lauren so she is thrilled to bits.
“I just didn’t imagine she would get there quite so young.”
Over 3,000 competitors played, sang or danced for All-Ireland titles in 180 competitions during the event.