Mayor celebrates 80 Years of Ray McGinley – A Lifetime Dedicated to Music and Community

Mayor celebrates 80 Years of Ray McGinley - A Lifetime Dedicated to Music and Community

7 May 2026

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, hosted a special reception for Ray McGinley, founder of the McGinley School of Music and Drama, to celebrate her 80th birthday and the release of her new memoir, Finding the Music.

For over 50 years, Ray McGinley has been at the heart of music education across Derry and Donegal, inspiring and mentoring thousands of young people. Through her teaching, she has prepared generations of students for feiseanna competitions and formal music examinations, while consistently encouraging them to pursue their artistic ambitions with confidence. In addition to her teaching, Ray has played a central role in the local arts and music scene through her leadership of the McGinley School Choir, and now has launched her new book, co-written with her husband, Michael.

Congratulating Mrs McGinley on her new book, Finding the Music, Mayor McHugh said, "Ray McGinley's contribution to the cultural and musical life of our city and region is truly exceptional. Through her dedication, she has inspired generations of young people to develop their talents and confidence. Her new book, Finding the Music, is a fitting reflection on a lifetime of passion, commitment, and community spirit. I'd like to say a huge congratulations on all her work, and wish her a very happy birthday."