Cork Music Legend and Store Owner Named Leeside’s Person of the Month
Sheena Crowley earns recognition for her efforts in preserving Rory Gallagher’s iconic guitar and supporting Cork’s music scene.
Cork, Ireland, Rory Gallagher, Music, Guitar, Crowley’s Music Centre
Cork: Sheena Crowley recently opened a welcoming music store in Cork city. This shop continues a family tradition in music that spans nearly a century.
Sheena led the campaign to bring Rory Gallagher’s famous Fender Stratocaster guitar back to Ireland. Now, she’s been named Cork Person of the Month for January.
This recognition highlights her successful efforts to keep Rory’s guitar in the country. It also acknowledges her long-standing contributions to Cork’s vibrant music community.
Sheena runs Crowley’s Music Centre on Friar Street. Locals have embraced the store, seeing it as a sign of new life in the area.
The shop offers everything musicians need, plus regular workshops and instrument repairs. It’s a hub for music lovers in Cork.
Sheena raised awareness about Rory’s 1961 Fender Stratocaster going up for sale. She campaigned tirelessly to prevent it from being sold abroad.
Through media appearances and organizing a tribute concert, she kept the guitar’s fate in the public eye. Her efforts engaged Cork’s music community and local leaders.
Thanks to her work, the guitar was purchased by Live Nation Gaiety Ltd. It will be donated to the National Museum of Ireland for public display.
Sheena also raised over €75,000 on GoFundMe to buy other instruments and memorabilia from Rory. These items will be showcased in a museum in Cork City.
The Crowley family has a rich history in Cork’s music scene. Sheena’s grandfather founded Crowley’s Music Centre in 1926, known for his pipe-making and composing.
Rory Gallagher bought his famous Strat from Sheena’s father, Michael, in 1963. Michael ran the business until his passing in 2010.
After a brief closure, Sheena revived the store in 2023. Now, Crowley’s Music Centre offers more than just instruments; it hosts podcasts and events.
Receiving her award, Sheena expressed her joy in keeping Rory’s guitar in Ireland. She emphasized its importance to her family and the community.
Awards organizer Manus O’Callaghan praised Sheena’s dedication. He noted that without her efforts, the guitar might have been lost to Ireland forever.
Sheena’s name will be considered for Cork Person of the Year at the Gala Awards Lunch in January 2026.