Key Events

Review, 'PERFECT STATE' - The Word.

PERFECT STATE RTÉ lyric fm CD113

One of the negative results of the English occupation of Ireland was the impact on music. Ireland never developed the rich orchestral tradition of Great Britain or continental Europe. Although today the country boasts fine orchestral players, it is difficult to compare to other parts of the world.

In this first recording from Dublin-born composer Ciarán Farrell, the suites are performed by a small number of musicians. Ciarán's music is influenced by the Irish tradition as well as contemporary rock and jazz. A successful composer of incidental music for commercials and TV/film scores, Farrell is also a serious composer. The music on this album is a testament to the vitality of Irish musicians not alone in the rock or traditional sphere but in something totally new.

The album ends with a musical accompaniment to a poem read by Barry McGovern. The poem was composed by Paddy Bushe, and illustrates an imaginary pilgrimage made by the Jesuit poet Gerard Manley Hopkins' to Skellig Micheál, off the Kerry coast.

The music evokes the swish of the waves as they rise and fall under the boat bearing the priest to the ancient monastic island. The poem is a marvellous evocation of Manley Hopkins journey of self discovery. Performed with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, this is a most enjoyable disc.

Michael Collins.