Tipperary uilleann piper awarded 2025 Ashling Murphy Memorial Entrance Scholarship

A gifted young uilleann piper from Tipperary has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Ashling Murphy Memorial Entrance Scholarship at Mary Immaculate College.

Muireann Meade, a first year Bachelor of Education student, has been awarded the honour jointly presented by MIC and the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation.

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The scholarship, now in its third year, commemorates Ashling Murphy, who was killed in 2022 only months after graduating from MIC as a primary teacher.

Created to reflect her deep commitment to both education and traditional Irish music, it recognises exceptional musical talent among new Bachelor of Education students.

Professor Dermot Nestor, President of MIC, said the award continues to hold a powerful meaning for the college.

“Once again, we acknowledge the memory of MIC graduate Ashling Murphy, whose life was tragically cut short in 2022. As well as being a beloved teacher to the many students, Ashling was a hugely accomplished and gifted traditional musician.

We continue to honour her memory through the awarding of a scholarship, in partnership with the INTO, to a fellow talented musician embarking on their Bachelor of Education primary teaching programme here at MIC. I wish Muireann the very best with her studies and her music over the next four years. “

Muireann Meade, from Templemore, is already an accomplished performer with multiple All Ireland titles to her name. In 2023 she secured first place in both the Uilleann Pipes and Slow Air competitions at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Her performances have featured on Fleadh TV on TG4 and on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, and she has appeared at events run by Na Píobairí Uilleann including at the Willie Clancy Summer School.

As a member of the Music Generation Laois Traditional Irish Music Orchestra she has performed at the National Concert Hall, the St Patrick’s Festival at Collins Barracks and on the Fleadh Gig Rig.

Reflecting on the award, Muireann said her interest in teaching was shaped by the educators who guided her musical and academic path.

“My interest in education and teaching young people stems from the fantastic teachers I had throughout the years. They instilled a love of learning in me, and I wish to pass this down to my students.

I’m very honoured to be awarded this scholarship, and I look forward to continuing Ashling’s legacy through my teaching studies and through my music.“

INTO President Anne Horan said the organisation is proud to help preserve Ashling Murphy’s legacy through the scholarship.

“At the INTO, we are honoured once again to support the Ashling Murphy Memorial Entrance Scholarship in partnership with MIC.

This scholarship recognises Ashling’s deep love of teaching and of traditional music, as well as her dedication to celebrating and nurturing new talent both inside and outside the classroom.”

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