While Ireland is a country of songs with a rich musical heritage – it is not too often that a small rural community is honoured by a song written in its praise!
Kathleen Glennon RSM, a native of Clooneskert, Kilteevan, has written the lyrics of a song titled “Song of Kilteevan” and this Saturday the CD single will be launched in the local Community Centre.
“Song of Kilteevan” is a celebration of the area’s unique history and heritage. Work carried out by the local community in recent years inspired Sr Kathleen to write the lyrics of her song. Sr Kathleen is an established author. Her latest book, “A Sense of Place: Reflections on the Boglands of Kilteevan”, was very successful and has received acclaim at home and abroad.
The music for the song was composed by Miriam Hunt. Miriam is a well known music teacher, choir director, organist and musical director. She is currently Principal of Meánscoil Muire gan Smál, Roscommon.
“Song of Kilteevan” is sung by Kilteevan’s own Enya Reilly. Enya is well known for her beautiful voice. She has played leading roles in school musicals and her performances were described “as good as would be heard on Broadway”.
The CD also has a track featuring Enya Reilly’s late grandfather Paddy Reilly singing the acclaimed “The Groves of Kilteevan”. The CD was recorded and produced by Eamon Ó Dálaigh, Midland Sound Equipment Athlone. Eamon generously donated many hours of his time, expertise and resources to the project. Sponsorship was also provided by Reimas Developments and The Sisters of Mercy, Western Province.
Kilteevan successes
There is no doubt that the area has been claiming its space on the global and national stage. Recent successes, to name but a few include, the Restoration of the Community Centre, Installation of a Heritage Trail, The Gathering 2013, Runner’s Up Award in the All Island Pride of Place 2015 and an Endeavour Award in the Tidy Towns competition in 2016. Song of “Kilteevan” will add a new dimension to the community’s success story.
Launch>
The CD will be launched this Saturday 3rd December in the local Community Centre at 8pm and will be on sale on the night. All are welcome and light refreshments will be served. The launch and promotion of the CD is supported by Kilteevan Community Development Group.