Noel Kirrane R.I.P. An Appreciation

Posted by admin on September 09, 2009 in Stalwarts tagged with

Noel-KirraneNow I recall my friend for he lived according to his code and in his way was true to God. Courage he had and was content to be himself, whatever came his way. There is no other chivalry. (Brendan Kennelly, “A Man I Knew”)

It was with the very deepest sense of shock, sorrow and regret that I, and all of the members of Ballinrobe Musical Society, learned on September 11th of the untimely passing of our beloved Musical Director, chorus master and conductor of 15 years, Mr Noel Kirrane at the young age of 53.

Not only have we lost a truly gifted and passionate man of music but also, a very special person with a heart as big as himself. Words alone, either written or spoke, just seem inadequate to articulate what Noel meant to all of us. Over the years, as co-conspirator with him and many others, in trying to present shows of quality and variety here in Ballinrobe, Noel became one of my closest friends and confidantes. I speak for all who knew him well when I say I am devastated by his loss. It was not so much the man of music as the man who inspired me.

A gifted musician, teacher and intellectual, it was without doubt his unassuming modesty, humility and human qualities which set him apart, and which always held me in awe. Like all great leaders, Noel neither pushed us in front, nor pulled us from behind, but rather, walked every step of the journey with us.

Along the way, he established himself as our inspirational hero, one on whom we relied and in whom we had total confidence. Noel’s four great loves in life were his family, his faith, music and his profession of teaching. It was, of course, his gift of music, which brought him closest to all of us.

In his endearing, humble way he would gratefully observe that his four grades on piano had afforded him the opportunity of playing and teaching some of the greatest music ever written. He was also keen to point out that music was his avenue to many long, precious and cherished friendships. Time or space would not allow me to document all of his countless, discreet musical achievements. Sufficed to say, that not even the most chronic arthritic pain diminished Noel’s will or enthusiasm to play, to teach and to share music. In so doing, he achieved at the highest level and inspired and motivated so many along the way.

Widely read, and of the keenest intellect, teaching was for Noel a natural, rewarding and highly-successful profession. In class, in music or in life you did not have to be the best for Noelas long as you tried your best. Noel once recounted to me that the highlight of his teaching career in his beloved St. Jarlath’s College, was guiding a young boy from the travelling community of Tuam, for whom he had a special affection, achieve Grade D in Classical studies in his Junior Cert.

That was the man, all things in life prioritised and in perspective, using his God-given talents at all times to the best of his ability and for the benefit of others. On all of life’s stages, Noel excelled and earned the universal respect of students, colleagues and acquaintances alike. His love of family and faith was intimate, more private to him but still palpable, deep and reverential in nature.

To his wife Anne, whom he adored, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and pledge our support. To Aine, Iarlath and Oisin I say how proud you must be to have had a dad like Noel. Oh, if we could all be a little more like him.

To me, Noel was a father-like figure too, one to whom you listened, one you admired, respected and one whom I will always remember and miss. His sharp wit, modesty, direct teaching style, but, most of all deep and loyal friendship, will be remembered by all of us. He taught us so much, not just about music but also about life and the depth, richness and indefinable beauty of the human spirit.

Never one to seek or accept plaudits or applause willingly, and with this in mind, he was installed as an Honorary Life member of this society four years ago. We were pleased that he was so touched by the gesture. It seems surreal and so poignant that the last musical number from the last show, which Noel directed and conducted, was “We’ll meet tomorrow” from our production of Titanic last year.

It was a piece of music which he dearly loved and made very much his own. It was with honour, but heartbreaking emotion, that all of our members battled through tears to sing those words of aspiration and comfort for our dearly beloved friend at his funeral. Oh if we could all be a little more like him.

“Noel, your unseen presence still flits among us, guides us and infuses us with the will to do the best we can. We know that would please you. Your immeasurable influence will forever flow freely through our veins. Though it will be difficult, we will try not to mourn anymore that you have gone, but rather rejoice that you have been. We will celebrate your soulful, priceless and precious legacy, as you would want us to, in the beautiful language of music and song. Whenever we breathe your name it will be with reverential respect, and it will always invoke happy memories of our fun-filled hours together. We will long remember and utter your wonderful nuggets of wit and wisdom! We have started to smile again when we think and talk of you. Sleep peacefully good and gentle friend. You have earned your place as bandmaster with that great heavenly choir.  You played your part, made your noble mark and will never be forgotten. May your gentle soul rest in peace.”

I will seek beauty all my days. Within the dark chaos of a troubled world, I will seek and find some beauteous thing. From eyes, grown dim with weeping will shine a light to guide me, and in sorrow’s hour, I shall behold a great high courage.

I shall find the wonder of infinite patience, and a quiet faith in coming joy and peace. And love will I seek in the midst of discord, and find swift eager hands outstretched in welcome. I will seek beauty all my days and in my quest I shall not be dismayed…. I shall find God.  (Minnie Aumonier)

- Pat McGovern.

 

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