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Founder@ Interview
With Paraic McNeela
Credits@ McNeela Music
“Find your ‘why’ and let it be the beacon that guides you through every decision, challenge, and success. Understanding deeply why you’re embarking on this journey will not only fuel your passion but also provide clarity and resilience during tough times.To the youth feeling overwhelmed: music is a sanctuary, in the whirlwind of today’s world, with its rapid technological advances and pressing mental health concerns, it’s easy to lose sight of the grounding force that music can be. ” – Paraic McNeela
Today we feature Paraic McNeela, the founder at McNeela Music. We hear their story in their own words, their successes, their challenges and their insights.
Let’s start by getting to know you. Can you please tell us a little bit about you and what you do?
I’m Paraic McNeela, and I’ve woven my life around the rich tapestry of Irish music. Born into a family where music and entrepreneurship were the daily bread, I found my true calling in 1979. McNeela Music stands as a beacon for those drawn to the heart-stirring sounds of Ireland, offering instruments crafted with love, tradition, and a dash of innovation.
A great introduction and start to this interview. Can you please tell us, how did you start, from what age, and what made you decide to change direction and start?
Before founding McNeela Music, Paraic McNeela was deeply ingrained in both a musical and entrepreneurial family, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His journey began in earnest in 1978, when crafting a bodhrán for a friend turned into a moment of realization. This experience revealed his unique ability to blend his woodworking skills with his passion for traditional Irish music, leading him to pursue this path fully. McNeela Music was born out of this blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation, with Paraic transitioning from his initial interests into a role where he could contribute significantly to preserving and promoting Irish musical heritage.
Thank you for that insight. So can you tell us…What does your business do and where is your company based?
McNeela Music specializes in crafting and retailing traditional Irish musical instruments, contributing to the preservation and celebration of Ireland’s rich musical heritage. Based in Dublin, Ireland, the company offers a wide range of instruments, including bodhráns, concertinas, flutes, and whistles, catering to musicians of all levels. McNeela Music is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement, making traditional Irish music accessible to a global audience.
What’s the story behind your success? What led to your aha moment? how did you get to where you are now?
The story behind McNeela Music’s success is rooted in a combination of passion, innovation, and community. Paraic McNeela’s ‘aha’ moment came when he crafted a bodhrán for a friend, realizing his potential to blend craftsmanship with traditional Irish music. The journey from there involved relentless dedication, learning from both successes and setbacks, and leveraging family and community support. By focusing on quality, customer satisfaction, and fostering a love for Irish music globally, McNeela navigated challenges to establish a respected brand within the traditional Irish music scene.
Thank you for sharing that. What’s been your life’s biggest lesson so far?
The biggest lesson in McNeela Music’s journey has been the importance of resilience and innovation in the face of challenges. From navigating economic downturns to adapting to shifts in the music industry, the journey has involved constant learning and adaptation. Overcoming such challenges has reinforced the value of staying true to the mission of promoting Irish music, listening to the community, and always looking for ways to improve and innovate. This approach has shaped how challenges are addressed, emphasizing flexibility, community engagement, and a commitment to quality.
One key insight I’ve gained is the power of community and storytelling in building a brand. I wish I’d understood earlier how sharing the journey, struggles, and triumphs of McNeela Music could resonate so deeply with our audience, creating stronger connections. Emphasizing the stories behind our instruments, the artisans who craft them, and the musicians who bring them to life enriches the value we offer, fostering a deeper appreciation for traditional Irish music and culture.
If you were to go back in time, what piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
I’d advise my younger self to trust in the passion and vision driving you towards music and entrepreneurship. Doubters will always exist, but your belief in your mission is what propels you forward. Embrace every setback as a lesson and every success as a stepping stone. Entrepreneurship is challenging, but the fulfillment from preserving and sharing Irish music culture worldwide makes every obstacle worth overcoming. Stay true to your values, listen to your audience, and never stop innovating—these are the keys to turning your dreams into reality.
What do you know now that you wished you had known before?
Credits@ McNeela Music
One key insight I’ve gained is the power of community and storytelling in building a brand. I wish I’d understood earlier how sharing the journey, struggles, and triumphs of McNeela Music could resonate so deeply with our audience, creating stronger connections. Emphasizing the stories behind our instruments, the artisans who craft them, and the musicians who bring them to life enriches the value we offer, fostering a deeper appreciation for traditional Irish music and culture.
What has been your greatest or proudest achievement or moment?
Our greatest achievement at McNeela Music is seeing the impact our instruments have on musicians worldwide. Knowing that our work plays a part in keeping the tradition of Irish music alive, vibrant, and accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds is immensely rewarding. Each time a musician tells us how our instrument has enriched their musical journey, it reaffirms our commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation.
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What future life goals do you want to achieve and why?
I aim to further bridge the gap between traditional Irish music and modern audiences, making it even more accessible and relevant. By innovating new instruments and educational resources, I hope to inspire future generations to keep the tradition alive. This goal is rooted in a deep belief in the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing change, ensuring that the beautiful legacy of Irish music continues to enrich lives worldwide.
To finish our inspire questions…”We believe that sharing inspiring words can inspire others.” If there was one positive thing you would say to someone to inspire and empower them what would it be and why?
Find your ‘why’ and let it be the beacon that guides you through every decision, challenge, and success. Understanding deeply why you’re embarking on this journey will not only fuel your passion but also provide clarity and resilience during tough times.To the youth feeling overwhelmed: music is a sanctuary, in the whirlwind of today’s world, with its rapid technological advances and pressing mental health concerns, it’s easy to lose sight of the grounding force that music can be.
“Thank you it has been great learning more about your founder story and McNeela Music”
To learn more about McNeela Music Visit https://mcneelamusic.com/
Find on social media @ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcneelamusic/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/McNeelaMusic/
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