The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Music returns to the Cathedral
IT WAS a new experience for classical crossover singer Grace Foley and pianist Noel O’Sullivan, but one they rose to admirably on the longest day of the year.
On Sunday night they performed behind closed doors at St Mary’s Cathedral, in what Fr Niall Howard said was the first concert to take place in the venue since mid-March.
Their show was broadcast via Parish webcam and radio – and while Fr Niall, Grace, and Noel were the only people present, it never felt like they were alone, Fr Niall explained to The Kerryman.
“It was a tricky one performing at an empty venue – but it went really, really well, they weren’t affected by it,” Fr Niall said. “And even though it was only the three of us there, I have to say there was a lovely energy.
“The feedback has been quite positive, and people who saw it advertised and promoted followed through on that and tuned in on the night. I think Grace remarked before one of the pieces that there was no sense the place was empty – that there was an audience watching.
“I’d like to express our appreciation to Grace and to Noel for this. It was Grace who approached us about doing it first, and we were delighted to be able to host it,” Fr Niall added.
The concert fell on the longest day of the year, another uplifting piece of symbolism, and there was plenty reason to move forward in a positive manner from the event, Fr Niall said.
“I think it was reassuring in itself that it was able to take place,” he said. “Maybe it’s another tentative step back towards normality.
“It was the first concert we’ve had here since the middle of March. I know people may have been performing via Facebook and social media, but I think this might have been the first ‘public’ concert in Killarney since lock-down began.”