Omagh Music Festival Weekend 2023: A Weekend Celebration of local talent and nostalgia

The much-anticipated Omagh Music Festival Weekend, organised by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, made a triumphant return on Friday 03 and Saturday 04 November 2023 at Strule Arts Centre, offering an array of engaging and delightful events for music lovers and heritage enthusiasts alike.

The Omagh Music Festival Weekend started on Friday 03 November 2023 with the captivating “Talk and Taste of the Showbands,” led by Paul Maguire in conversation with Ray Moore and Pat Chesters.  This was a fascinating journey delving into the history and culture of the Showbands with a particular emphasis on The Plattermen’s journey and their progression from Country to Rock music, sharing enthralling stories that have left an indelible mark on the music of generations.  After this enlightening experience, the attendees continued their musical exploration by enjoying a Showband-themed High Tea at Dempsey’s, located on Main Street, the former home of the Royal Arms Hotel. While savouring delicious treats, they indulged in a bit of nostalgia, reminiscing about the golden era of music, creating a unique and evocative atmosphere.

Also on Friday 03 November, the Swing Dance Tyrone added a touch of pizzazz to the festival with a facilitated workshop which allowed participants to be transported back in time immersing themselves in the world of swing dance.

Saturday 04 November began with a Jimmy Kennedy-inspired songwriting workshop led by the talented Frank Galligan. This workshop provided songwriting enthusiasts a golden opportunity to delve into the craft of songwriting, blending with music and making wonderful connections.

Throughout the day, the exhibition area came alive with the melodious tunes of Culmore Swing Combo and the Blue Notes of St Eugene’s Brass and Reed band, enhancing the festival’s ambiance with their delightful music.

The grand finale event of the weekend was a mesmerising 15-piece band performance paying homage to Omagh’s very own Plattermen, with three of the members in the audience – Ray Moore, Pat Chesters and Leo Doran.  A packed house enjoyed an excellent performance from a band made up of the very best musicians from Omagh, Derry/Londonderry and Donegal.  Vocalists included Niall Moore, nephew of The Plattermen’s musical arranger Ray Moore, singing hits including Old Devil Wine and Blue; and Brian McNamee singing hits from the American Band Tower Power such as What is Hip and Don’t Change Horses in the Middle of the Stream.  This was a unique opportunity for the audience to experience what The Plattermen sounded like in their prime, as they performed not only their own music but music from bands such as Blood, Sweat and Tears, Earth Wind and Fire and  Steely Dan.

Gerarda McCann also performed hits from Aretha Franklin and Dusty Springfield’s Son of a Preacher Man.  The evening was beautifully narrated by Tom Sweeney providing an insight into the lives of the Omagh Showbands at that time.  The wonderful night was drawn to a close with a standing ovation for the magnificent performance from the band, The Plattermen and Ray Moore who performed in the final set.  It was an emotive evening for the audience filled with joy and nostalgia and one that will be remembered for many years to come.

In line with the festival’s commitment to community engagement and music heritage, the “Sights and Sounds of the Showbands era” exhibition garnered enthusiastic participation and appreciation from local schools and community groups since its launch in October. This well-attended exhibition, led by and supported by the community from start to finish, emphasised the profound connection between the exhibition and the local community. The addition of costumes from Oh Yeah Belfast added authenticity and charm to the exhibition, while Rustic Runway showcased a unique collection that resonated with the visitors.  Further enhancing the experience, the exhibition received invaluable support from NI Screen, who contributed a multi-media dimension that captivated and engaged the audience, making it a truly immersive and memorable showcase of Omagh’s rich musical heritage.

The Council also proudly introduced an outreach program, including the ‘Spotlight on the Showbands’ educational initiative. This program, enhanced by bespoke multimedia content thoughtfully crafted in collaboration with students from South West College and community members, exemplifies Strule Arts Centre’s role as a hub for education and cultural appreciation, fostering a strong sense of community involvement and local history preservation.

Thank you to everyone involved in and who attended any of Omagh Music Festival events since the launch of the Sights and the Sounds of the Showbands Exhibition on 5 October 2023.

If you would like to find out more about the Education Programme or ongoing Heritage Plans contact the Heritage Officer via email: strulearts@fermanaghomagh.com or Telephone: 0300 303 1777