Saoirse receives Ashling Murphy Scholarship award

Saoirse receives Ashling Murphy Scholarship award

3 September 2025

A MEMBER of Newcastle CCÉ has received a coveted Ashling Murphy Scholarship for Music Education.

Saoirse Barbour was presented with the award at the National Folk Orchestra concert at the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford.

The awards were established by Comhaltas in 2022 to remember and recognise the legacy of Ashling Murphy, a newly-qualified primary school teacher, music teacher and performer who was murdered in January 2022.

Saoirse’s proposed project, entitled ‘Ceol le Chéile’ focuses on developing an inclusive traditional music programme for young adults with special educational needs. 

The project seeks to promote inclusivity, offer mentorship and creative opportunities to participants and celebrate their achievements through community engagement and performance.

Music was at the very heart of Ashling’s life. She not only found joy in playing, but also in inspiring the next generation – nurturing young talent through her work with her local Comhaltas branch and within her classroom as a primary school teacher.

Ashling’s passion and dedication continue to resonate with all who knew her and her family hope that through scholarships such as this that her legacy will be continued. 

A spokesperson for Newcastle CCÉ said the group were “absolutely delighted” and  “immensely proud” of Saoirse’s achievement.

“We have no doubt the presentation was a proud evening for her parents Jenny and Jimmy and entire family circle,” the spokesperson said.

“We wish Saoirse every success with her project in the time ahead.”