POET President Michael D Higgins joined a raft of major Irish artists to perform Van Morrison's work celebrating the Belfast singer-songwriters' 75th birthday.
He gave a moving reading of 'Rave On John Donne' by Van Morrison, with music by Bill Whelan - the title piece in the day-long tribute.
A song from Morrison's 1983 album `Inarticulate Speech of the Heart' was transformed through a unique collaboration, with music provided by composer and Riverdance creator Whelan.
The performance also featured Tara Howley on low whistle and vocals, Derek `Doc' O'Connor on saxophone and Mal O'Brien on guitar.
Speaking to Hot Press magazine which organised the events, President Michael D. Higgins said: "Van Morrison is one of the outstanding songwriters and performers of the past 60 years and has been a powerful inspiration to successive generations of musicians and artists all over the island of Ireland, and abroad.
"It is a great privilege to be part of this extraordinary celebration of Van’s work, on the occasion of his 75th birthday. Long may he continue. Rave on, Van Morrison."
He was followed by Bob Geldof; Moya Brennan; Paul Casey and contributors including Terri Hooley; Brian Kennedy; Sinéad O'Connor; Imelda May; Gary Lightbody, Andrea Corr; Paul Brady, Damien Dempsey, Una Healy; Damien Rice; Glen Hansard and Hozier.
