A capacity audience at the The Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre was treated to a world exclusive on Friday 28th April, when trad band Réalta performed a brand new piece written in honour of the area, commissioned by Live Music Now Northern Ireland.
‘The Leap’ is a 15 minute composition incorporating the words of local poet Anne McMaster. It traces the history, myths and legends of #Limavady right up to the present day, acknowledging the creativity and good will of the community here.
At its conclusion the audience rose to their feet in a spontaneous standing ovation. Seventeen young musicians from Jimmy O’Hara Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Roe Valley also made their debut on stage.
Live Music Now NI National Director Alice Lewis said,
‘This was a moving and evocative piece, which took us on a musical journey through time – from ancient place names to the vibrant life of our community today.
Anne’s poem explored the myth ‘The Leap’ that gave Limavady its name* on multiple levels. Conor Lamb and Deirdre Galway’s music animated Anne’s words so powerfully – from the frenzied rush of the legendary dog to the gentle flow of the River Roe.
In the coming months, Conor and Deirdre will take this piece to schools, community centres and care homes and will professionally record it in the Autumn. We gratefully acknowledge our funders, Bank of Ireland’s Begin Together Fund in partnership with Business to Arts and Arts Council of Northern Ireland.”
*If you don’t know the myth of the Limavady Leap, check it out here!
Photo credit: Keady Clachan
Read an earlier article about the commission here.
