Derravarragh plans a concert for Tullynally
The Derravarragh Music Association, founded 1987, presents A Summer Concert by harpist Dearbhail Finnegan, and silver flautist Robin Slater at Tullynally Castle, Castlepollard on Saturday July 6 at 8pm.
This summer’s concert celebrates the music of Turlough O’Carolan, the famous 18th century blind harpist, who played for all the nobility of Ireland.
Harpist Dearbhail Finnegan was brought up in the village of Nobber in Meath, birthplace of O’Carolan, and so has a special connection with his music. Since 1996 she has combined a busy solo performance career as well as being director of the Meath Harp Academy, a centre for learning Irish harp.
Dearbhail’s husband Robin Slater, a concert silver flautist, will complete the duet. The programme will chiefly feature the music of Turlough O’Carolan with such renowned airs as Eleanor Plunkett, Bridget Cruise and the famous Carolan’s Concerto along with light classical, South American and harp compositions from other harping traditions around the world.
Dearbhail and Robin have played for Royalty, Presidents and many dignitaries around the globe, and have made numerous recordings: together they combine natural humour with beautiful music to make an enjoyable evening very special. Dearbhail will perform on both an Irish and classical Concert Harp and Robin will perform on concert flute and bodhrán.
Prior to the main concert, at 6.30pm, also in the Great Hall, there will be a talk by the author and musician, Caitríona Rowsome, ‘A Perspective on Carolan’.
Caitríona Rowsome’s book, The Complete Carolan Songs and Airs arranged for the Irish Harp at Clontarf Castle, published by Waltons, includes a companion set of four CDs of the complete collection of arrangements, played by the author. It also collects Carolan’s extant lyrics along with historical notes.
Tickets €20 are now on general sale at Day’s Bazaar, Mullingar, or Murray’s Store, Castlepollard or by contacting Mrs Bridget Taylor, Bawnavullawn, Lough Bawn, Collinstown on 044 9666344, email loughbawn@eircom.net.
If the weather is suitable, do bring a picnic. Even if it isn’t, bring one anyway, as there is plenty of shelter.
Tullynally’s wonderful gardens will be open, tickets (€5) available from the Tearooms.
Pre-concert suppers are available in the Tullynally Tearoom, and may be booked by contacting Shirley Lamont on 087-0925740 or tullynallytearoom@gmail.com.