Statement by President Higgins following the death of Professor Seóirse Bodley
Date: Fri 17th Nov, 2023 | 17:26
“As President of Ireland, may I express my sorrow at learning today of the death of Professor Seóirse Bodley.
The contribution of Seóirse to music composition was of immense significance and as a teacher he will be greatly missed. I have no doubt whatever that his unique legacy will endure for generations to come. There are so many who recall his time as Professor of Music at University College Dublin for over four decades.
That this was recognised by the conferring of an Honorary Doctorate on Seóirse by the National University of Ireland just a few weeks ago was warmly welcomed and so well earned.
Seóirse was the first composer to be accorded the distinguished title of Saoi of Aosdána and his work was rightly recognised at home and abroad. One of his many accomplishments was his commissioned work which opened our National Concert Hall in Dublin in 1981.
All of us who had the privilege of knowing him recall also the warmth of his personality and the great affection, as well as respect, in which he was held by students and colleagues.
Sabina joins me in sending our deepest condolences to his beloved and devoted wife, Professor Lorraine Byrne Bodley, and to his family and many friends and colleagues at this time of great loss. I hope that many happy memories, as well as the endurance of Seóirse’s exceptional legacy, will serve as a consolation now. It is one that will never be forgotten.
Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal."