Crowleys Music Centre celebrates a century of Cork music heritage

Sheena Crowley says Crowleys Music Centre, now at 1 Friar Street, remains a hub for Cork’s music community, honouring the legacy of her father and grandfather.

Founded by her grandfather Tadhgh in 1923 on Merchant’s Quay and officially registered in 1926, the family‑run shop has moved locations but retained its core mission. After Tadhgh’s death, Sheena’s father Mick took over in 1951 at age 14, running the business with his sister.

Sheena, originally from Ballinlough, describes the shop as a “circular economy”, where customers buy instruments, then receive support through CD sales, workshops, gigs and events, creating an ongoing relationship that can span years from a child’s first instrument to adulthood.

Recent initiatives include a songwriting competition that attracted 222 entries, far exceeding expectations. The shop also features in the unofficial Rory Gallagher tour, recalling the 1961 Fender Stratocaster purchase that cemented its place in Cork music lore.

International artists visit as well; in 2025 blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa stopped by during a three‑night residency at Live at the Marquee, declined a discount and posted a photo that sparked a surge in customers.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Gizem toprak / Pexels.