Musician and composer, Peadar Ó Riada has been named as Cork Person of the Month for June 2020.
The award marks Peadar’s contribution to Irish culture as a composer, musician, choir director and broadcaster.
Peadar’s interest in music began at a young age, as he was inspired by his father, Seán Ó Riada, who was one of the most influential figures in the revival of Irish traditional music during the 1960s.
Over the years he has performed with many different groups, taking his father’s place at the keyboards and directing Ceoltóirí Chualan since 1971. He also regularly performs in a duet with Seán Ó Sé.
In 1986, he founded the all-female choir Cór Ban Cúil Aodha. He founded the traditional University Acadamh Fódhla in 2000, the Irish Cultural trust Iontaoibheas Fódhla in 1999, and in 2011 the international festival “Féile na Laoch” commemorating his late father Seán Ó Riada.
Peadar has also acted as Director of Cór Cúil Aodha since September 1971.
Peadar has also composed extensively for Cór Cúil Aodha and has accumulated a large body of liturgical and secular works for Male Voiced Choir in the Irish traditional idiom.
Speaking on his success Peadar said: “It’s great to be recognised by the people of Cork who have supported me throughout my career. Irish traditional music is my passion and I am thankful that I have been able to do what I love every day.”
Awards Organiser Manus O’Callaghan said: “Peadar Ó Riada’s own contribution to the Cork cultural and artistic scene has been wide reaching. Of course, you can’t mention the O’Riada family name, without thinking of Mise Eire.
“The emotional energy of that piece of music is deeply affecting in Ireland. Indeed many feel it should be our National Anthem.”
Peadar Ó Riada’s name will now go forward for possible selection as Cork Person of the Year at an awards lunch on January 15th next at Rochestown Park Hotel.
