The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Some musical hope after COVID travails
TWO well-known Killarney stars are set to bring their musical nous to St Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday night, and while the crowds won’t be allowed to gather at the iconic venue, that won’t stop them from watching or listening.
Classical crossover singer Grace Foley and pianist Noel O’Sullivan are set to get an hour-long concert underway at the venue from 7pm on June 21, and their combining of their respective talents will provide some respite to those who’ve been cooped up during the COVID-19 lock-down.
It’s all taking place behind closed doors, of course, but the parish webcam will make sure it’s available in everyone’s home, while parish radio will also broadcast the performance.
The event, organisers say, will give parishioners an opportunity to reflect on what has been an unprecedented and hugely difficult point in all our lives, while giving hope looking into the post-COVID future.
Grace has explained that the repertoire chosen by the duo will serve to help viewers and listeners do exactly that.
“At a time when words fail, music speaks, and music has been speaking volumes during these past few months,” she said.
“I feel the need to reach out to people through music, but I haven’t been able to sing in public due to the pandemic.
“The cathedral is such a special place for so many people, and I truly look forward to reaching the ears and, hopefully the hearts, of everyone who tunes in.”
Parish Priest Fr Niall Howard repeated Grace’s sentiments, and also pointed out that the event is especially fitting as it falls on the longest day of the year.
“There is a great symbolism to the fact that the concert is being held on the longest day of the year,” he said.
“It will celebrate the brightest of times in the midst of all the challenges we have faced.
“No matter what we have to endure, we must believe in the goodness of people and the goodness of God to help us through,” he added.