World renowned Irish songwriter and performer Iarla Ó Lionáird hailed his journey to being awarded a doctorate at University of Limerick as ‘a great adventure’. The critically acclaimed, twice Grammy nominated artist, was conferred with a PhD in Arts Practice from University of Limerick this week.
The singer and record producer from Ballyvourney was one of over 3,600 students graduating as part of the University’s autumn conferring ceremonies.
A Proud Moment
It was a special day for the musician who noted his pride at the fact his late father passed away knowing he had completed the doctorate at UL’s Irish World Academy of Music and Dance.
“When I handed in my doctoral study in January, my dad rang me. He actually passed away that same month, but he rang and said ‘A Dhoctúir’ (Doctor). I said, ‘you're jumping the gun’, ‘no’, he said, ‘the work is done’,” he said.
“I feel proud that he knew that I was finished and that he luxuriated in that because he was an educator himself. He was a principal of a secondary school, a very successful principal and beloved by his community.
“So that was one of the greatest feelings I have to say, that Dad knew I'd finished it, but also that I had finished it myself.”
A Journey of Musical Exploration
Dr Iarla Ó Lionáird’s unique singing style has carried him to stages all over the world, from New York's Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House, London’s Royal Albert Hall and beyond. With musical interests ranging from traditional sean nós song to worldbeat and from alt folk to opera, he was brought up in West Cork by a family of sean nós style singers.
His educational journey in UL began back in 2003 through Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin, the founder of UL’s Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, who he had been performing concerts with. He went on to complete a Masters in Ethnomusicology during a break from touring with his former band Afro-Celt Sound System.
Dr Ó Lionáird credits his introduction to new classical music as one of the most pivotal moments for him, through working on Grá Agus Bás with Dublin composer Donnacha Dennehy, and said he probably wouldn't have been quite so emboldened to do any of it had it not been for his encounter with UL.
He thanked Professor Helen Phelan and Dr Aileen Dillane in particular for their tremendous and unceasing encouragement throughout his PhD which he said has “been a great adventure”.
A Legacy of Music and Inspiration
Ó Lionáird’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring legacy of music. His accomplishments not only showcase his extraordinary musical talents but also highlight the importance of embracing new musical experiences. The award is a fitting tribute to his dedication and perseverance, and a source of inspiration for aspiring musicians and scholars alike.
Ó Lionáird’s journey serves as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and artistic expression are interconnected. His success is a testament to the power of embracing diverse musical influences and pushing creative boundaries. As he continues to share his unique voice with the world, Ó Lionáird's story will undoubtedly inspire others to follow their own paths and embrace the transformative power of music.
