Sir, - I refer to a recent Irishman's Diary by Kevin Myers about the lack of teaching of parlour songs in schools today and the efforts by Deirdre O'Callaghan to restore Thomas Moore and his melodies to the mainstream of Irish popular culture. Mr Myers should be pleased to know that the melodies of Thomas Moore are very prominent and alive in Kilkenny.
Historians frequently refer to the strong connection between Moore and Kilkenny. In fact, it is stated that one of his most famous melodies, The Last Rose Of Summer, was composed there.
Schoolchildren throughout Kilkenny are well aware of Moore's history in the area. As a tribute to his memory, an annual Thomas Moore Competition is held in Kilkenny in which students from all over the county congregate to sing melodies such as "The Harp", "Believe Me" and "The Meeting Of The Waters".
Primary and secondary school students here look forward to this annual event. The teachers of Kilkenny and the organisers of the competition should feel proud that a little bit of our history is indeed being passed on from generation to generation.
In years to come, when the words of songs by Boyzone and the Spice Girls may long be forgotten, Thomas Moore's melodies will still be alive in Kilkenny. - Yours, etc., Bernie Little,
Shandon Park, Kilkenny.