Laois musician launches magical first album
Award-winning Laois pianist David Vesey has launched his debut album 'Carolan Reflections'
A MAGICAL musician from Laois has launched his first album not once but twice to widespread acclaim.
Award-winning pianist David Vesey unveiled his debut album at two December concerts, held in Portlaoise and Abbeyleix.
The glorious album reimagines the timeless works of Turlough O’Carolan, often referred to as Carolan, Ireland’s famed blind Celtic harper, composer and singer of the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
Known for their captivating beauty and emotional depth, O’Carolan’s compositions remain instantly recognisable to traditional and other musicians.
O’Carolan holds a special place in David’s musical journey and he was immersed in his music since childhood, having discovered his inspirational melodies under the guidance of his primary school teacher. David’s involvement with the Spink Comhaltas branch and Music Generation Laois (MGL) deepened his connection to O’Carolan’s works.
The first album launch was held at the Laois Music Centre in Portlaoise, in partnership with Laois School of Music and MGL, when David gave masterclasses to young pianists and performed selections from his debut album.
A further launch was held on 14 December at St Michael and All Angels Church in Abbeyleix, when musicians from Spink Comhaltas entertained the audience before David performed his Carolan arrangements. The concert was generously hosted by Canon Patrick Harvey and the Abbeyleix and Killermogh union of parishes.
David’s arrangements offer listeners an intimate encounter with O’Carolan’s melodies, infusing them with a fresh energy while maintaining their timeless essence.
He said: “I feel privileged to share my arrangements of Carolan’s music. These reflections are personal in nature, representing my relationship with Carolan as a composer and broader reflections on Irish identity.
“I hope these arrangements will bring Carolan’s music to new audiences and continue his legacy in a modern context.”
is available on all major streaming platforms, offering a unique blend of classical piano and traditional Irish music that will resonate with listeners both in Ireland and beyond. It is also available in physical form on Bandcamp and in limited stores.
