Redemptorist Church, Limerick

ChoruS of East Providence had come to Ireland to sing.  We had worked for six months to learn the music. We had learned Irish folk songs.  We memorized the Irish National Anthem "Soldiers Song" in Irish.

Our first rehearsal and concert were at Redemptorist Church Mt. St Alphonsus in Limerick.  [Tour]

In all of our concerts there was no a large turnout.  Though the concerts were free, the friends-and-relatives who accompanied the choir often outnumbered the local attendees.  No matter:  we were there to sing.

The American Song concert was designed by director Beth Armstrong to reflect the great variety of American choral music from the 19th through the 21st Century.

At this performance in the front row to the far left was a very elderly woman, toothless, and decked out in a very pert knitted cap.  Next to her was a man maybe in his fifties, good looking and probably her son.  Both clearly enjoyed and appreciated the music.

When we got to the folks songs, though, she came sparklingly alive!  She sang the songs and beamed.

And then, the Soldiers Song.  Most people we are told do not know the Irish words to their own national anthem. But, my, she did.  It seemed impossible, but her smile got even bigger and brighter.  And the tears!

Talking to her after the performance, we learned the man was her son, that she was 92 and she especially remembered the folk songs from her girlhood years.  Wish I had a photo of her and her perky hat.

THIS is why we sing.