Sir, – Having played as a member of the Artane Band for numerous All-Ireland finals in the past, I was surprised to notice the GAA’s choice of music during the televised half-time interval of the All-Ireland football final. I am aware that the half-time interval has evolved in many ways over the years and that the GAA provides various types of entertainment for the supporters at this stage of an All-Ireland final. However, as a television viewer, I noticed that one of my favourite Adele songs Rolling in the Deep was broadcast in the stadium while the RTÉ commentators were speaking on the side-line. It seems a great pity that the GAA did not avail of the wonderful services of the Artane Band at this stage of the event.
My fondest memories of the Artane Band include playing the anthems of both counties during the half-time interval of many All-Ireland finals and the pride of both sets of supporters singing along! It would be a great shame for the supporters and the vast worldwide television audience of this great annual sporting occasion, if this distinct tradition were to disappear. – Yours, etc,