Laois singer and composer releases debut album

Laois pianist and composer David Vesey has just released his debut album 'Carolan Reflections'.

The album is a reimagining of the timeless works of the famous Irish singer and composer Turlough O'Carolan. 

David, from Abbeyleix, wrote, performed and arranged the album which offers a fresh perspective on the music of one of Ireland's national harpists and composers, blending classical piano and traditional Irish influences. 

The late 17th and early 18th century composer, Turlough O'Carolan, has been a major influence on David's musical journey.

The Laois man has taken inspiration from O'Carolan's works since childhood, first learning the pieces on the tin whistle under the guidance of his primary school teacher John O'Brien. 

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His connection to the composer's work was strengthened by his involvement with Spink Comhaltas where Paula Dowling McDonald introduced him further to O'Carolan's music.

These experiences have culminated in David's album 'Carolan Reflections' which both honours and develops O'Carolan's compositions. 

David first began working on the project during the COVID-19 pandemic, which also coincided with the 350th anniversary of O'Carolan's birth.

Commenting on this time, David said: "Like many people, I found myself with a lot of free time on my hands during the pandemic. It was a time to reflect, and I had a desire to create something new from this situation. I composed five initial arrangements of O'Carolan’s work during that time. This album is the result of these reflections."

David said: "O'Carolan was alive at the time of composers like Vivaldi, Handel, and Bach. His music bridges the gap between the Irish traditional and classical worlds.

"The harp, O’Carolan’s chosen instrument, shares many similarities with the piano, and through the piano, I aim to continue a tradition started by figures like Seán Ó Riada and Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin, who brought O’Carolan’s music into new realms."

The album's arrangements offer listeners an intimate encounter with O'Carolan's melodies, infusing them with a fresh energy while maintaining their timeless essence. 

David said he feels "privileged to share my arrangements of O'Carolan's music."

He added: "These reflections are personal in nature, representing my relationship with O’Carolan as a composer and also broader reflections on Irish identity. I hope these arrangements will bring O'Carolan's music to new audiences and continue his legacy in a modern context."

David's 'Carolan Reflections' is now available on all major streaming platforms.