Remarks by President McAleese On the occasion of the Veronica Dunne Singing competition
Remarks by President McAleese On the occasion of the Veronica Dunne Singing competition At the National Concert Hall
I would like to begin by expressing my delight at being here tonight to celebrate with you the continuing success story that is the Veronica Dunne Singing Competition and to have the pleasurable task of presenting the prizes to this year’s winners.
The Veronica Dunne Competition from its recent beginnings in 1995 has found a unique place in the cultural life of Ireland and has become a key event on the international singing calendar. Although the first competition was open only to Irish born entrants, the high level of interest from abroad propelled it rapidly into the international experience that it is today. This is now truly an international competition and among the 85 applications for this year’s competition, there have been entrants from all over Europe, the USA, Canada, Korea and Australia.
Every event, competition or project has a central driving force without which it would not exist and this competition is no exception. I am speaking of course of the lady herself – Veronica Dunne. She was aptly described to me as a “tidal wave of warmth, humanity and generosity”. Veronica established this competition not just out of a passion for singing but out of that love which hallmarks every great teacher – that determination to unlock the giftedness of others. It is her enthusiasm and energy which have earned the high level of recognition and ensure the presentation of work to the highest international standards. There is no doubt that she has played an enormous part in shifting the public perception of singing and voice training from something esoteric and exclusive to that of an accessible art form easily enjoyed by all lovers of music.
The success of this competition depends on the input of a great many people, from the host families who lend such support to our overseas entrants, to the very distinguished and hardworking panel of internationally renowned judges and many others working quietly in the planning. The dedication, enthusiasm and quality of the people involved with this competition ensures that it will endure and grow in reputation and reach in the years ahead.
This is in no small part due to the many generous sponsors who have contributed to this event. The support of the ESB, in particular, has guaranteed a high level of interest and fitting rewards for the winners.
But it is the young entrants who deserve our respect and praise. Their level of commitment to their chosen profession is beyond question. The level of excellence they demonstrate here is no accident. Their God-given talent could have lain dormant but it didn’t because of sheer effort, good training and sustained devotion from teachers, pupils and parents. Voices must be fostered and nurtured, developed and protected. I know that our young singers have dedicated many long hours of practice in preparing for this competition. They have been innovative and adventurous in their choice of works. The standards attained are a tremendous tribute to their professionalism, commitment and dedication, and to the guides who have helped them along what is a difficult and fraught, and sometimes lonely path. This forum hopefully indicates that dedication, that investment of self. In this forum we hope your vocation to singing is energised and given fresh vibrancy, greater confidence.
I am happy to say that this competition has opened doors for several past participants. I have no doubt that many of this year’s finalists will go on to perform in major operatic houses across the globe and wherever they go they will be fine ambassadors for the Veronica Dunne Singing Competition.
I would like to mention one person in particular who did so much to carry on the proud Irish tradition of love for singing – the late Dermot Troy. Dermot was one of our finest Irish tenors and was deservedly acclaimed worldwide for his talents. He died at the tragically early age of 36 depriving us of his genius all too soon. I am delighted that he is being remembered here this evening through the Dermot Troy Trophy. I would like to send my best wishes to his widow, Eithne, who I know is with us here this evening.
Most of all I would like to thank again all the participants for their inspiring renditions which came from the heart and the soul. I wish each of you every success in your future career.