The Late Brian Ó Dubhghaill, Stiúrthóir Féile Ceoil na Scoileanna

Brian Ó Dubhghaill was a founder member and director of Féile Ceoil na Scoileanna, Áth Luain since its’ establishment in 1966 right up to his sad passing in October 2013. For many years he was a welcome and regular visitor to schools in the Athlone area where he encouraged and tutored teachers and pupils in their various musical endeavours. His work on the Féile Ceoil committee and throughout the stage performances was generous and legendary. When members of the Féile Ceoil committee met him in 2013 at the Dublin Féile Ceoil he spoke enthusiastically about our plans to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Athlone’s Féile  in 2015. Speaking at the first Féile Ceoil in St Mary’s Hall in May 1966 Rev Fr Lane CC, St Mary’s parish said  ‘…the inspiring genius behind the whole movement was Brian O’ Dubhghaill.

Perhaps Brian’s greatest achievement was his lifelong involvement in music education in general and choral training and conducting in particular. Through his work as a music inspector he had a major influence on the development of the schools’ music curriculum at all levels as well as on teacher training and on the provision of professional development courses for teachers. Before the establishment of the State Examinations Commission, based in Athlone, Brian was heavily involved with planning and managing the Junior and Leaving Certificate music examinations.

Brian managed and directed for over forty years the renowned Cantairí Óga Átha Cliath. They achieved numerous awards at choral festivals on the international stage. This choir travelled to places such as England, Austria, France, Spain, Belgium, Germany Greece, Hungary, Italy, Jersey, Slovakia, Poland and the Check Republic.

Féile Ceoil na Scoileanna, Áth Luain  was privileged to have Brian as their Director for many years.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.