Northern Ireland

Derry musician Redmond Friel honoured with blue plaque

An Ulster History Circle blue plaque will be unveiled in honour of musician, Redmond Friel later today.
An Ulster History Circle blue plaque will be unveiled in honour of musician, Redmond Friel later today. An Ulster History Circle blue plaque will be unveiled in honour of musician, Redmond Friel later today.

THE life of one of Derry’s most accomplished musicians, teachers and composers, Redmond Friel will be commemorated later today when a blue plaque is unveiled in his honour.

Organised by the Ulster History Circle, the blue plaque scheme honours men and women who have contributed to Northern Ireland’s history.

Later today, a plaque will be placed at Chapel Road primary school in Derry in honour of Mr Friel who taught in and became principal of the school.

Born in Derry in 1907, Mr Friel’s interest and career in music spanned 65 years during which he taught some of the greatest musical talents to emerge from the north west. His pupils included songwriter, Kevin Brady, musician/composer, Phil Coulter, composer, Kevin O’Connell and many others.

An award-winning musician, he played the piano, cello, organ and clarinet. As well as teaching at Chapel Road primary school, he taught part time at St Columb’s College. As a choirmaster, he was involved with a number of choirs, including the award-winning Foyle Singers. From 1930 to 1975, he was organist and choirmaster at St Columb’s Church.

A composer of note, he was also known as a music adjudicator at festivals throughout Ireland. On his death, his own “Mass for Columb”, marking the centenary of St Columb’s College, was performed at his Requiem.

Chairman of the Ulster History Circle, Chris Spurr said Mr Friel shared his love of music with many pupils over the years.

“The Ulster History Circle is delighted to commemorate this distinguished musician with a blue plaque at the school where he achieved a unique triplet as pupil, teacher and principal,” Mr Spurr said.

Today’s unveiling ceremony will take place at 11am.