President Higgins attends premiere of Marbhna 1916

The President of Ireland Michael D Higgins and Mrs Higgins, and Lord Mayor of Dublin, Criona Ni Dhalaigh were guests of honour yesterday at the premiere of Marbhna 1916 - Requiem which was composed by Odhran O Casaide, lecturer in the Conservatory of Music and Drama.

President Michael D Higgins and Mrs Sabina Higgins with composer of Marbhna 1916 - Requiem,  Odhran O Casaide and his mother Noirin who was born in 1916.

Another very important guest at the event was mother of the composer, Noirin Bean Ui Chasaide, who was herself born in the year 1916 and who met with President Higgins and Mrs Higgins after the performance.

Sixty musicians and vocalists, including current students, graduates and members of Conservatory staff, performed the work for the first time in Dublin's City Hall as part of Tradfest 16.  The audience included members of the diplomatic corps and the judiciary, musicians and friends of the Conservatory. Broadcaster Joe Duffy, whose own book 'Children of the Rising' has become a best seller, was also present.

The next public performance of Marbhna 1916 - Requiem will take place on 04 March in Beechwood Church, Ranelagh, sponsored by the Embassy of Canada.