Sir, - As prohibter of Ashkenazy's Limerick concert on May 17th permit me to reply to Jasper Parrott's rather petty letter (May 14th). Though I should, I suppose, be flattered that he reads your newspaper, the truth is probably that he had a complaint from the National Concert Hall management. To suppose or suggest that a coach load of enthusiasts setting out for Limerick poses a threat to the NCH is simply too ridiculous for words.
Jasper Parrott is obviously totally unfamiliar with the concert scene in Ireland. The Limerick Music Association has a thriving band of supporters in Dublin and over the years we have arranged coach tours to and from Limerick to events in Limerick or Dublin. We are currently planning an autumn tour to Belfast to enable our fans to savour the joys of the resplendent new Waterfront Hall.
Jasper Parrot should also realise that the trip to Limerick is not just for Ashkenazy. There were three main reasons behind our thinking as we planned the trip. 1. To give music and art lovers the opportunity of visiting the truly superb newly opened Hunt Museum. 2. To enable them to inspect the fabulous concert hall in the grounds of Limerick University and to enjoy the various art exhibitions in the complex. 3. To attend the Ashkenazy recital.
Many of those travelling to Limerick are members of art clubs. Some are single or widowed. The tour enables them to meet and enjoy the company of across section of interesting Dubliners. The friendships built up on the tour can only do lasting good.
Finally, I might add that a concert promoter surely has the right to sell a concert to whomsoever he pleases. Whether or not we are paying Mr. Ashkenazy a fee or giving a donation to a charity is quite beside the point. Jasper Parrott sold us a concert and we have a moral right to try and get rid of every ticket.
Why should the National Concert Hall crumble at our success? Their Ashkenazy recital in January 1998 is already virtually sold out! The LMA is an entirely voluntary body and we are tremendously grateful to Vladimir Ashkenazy for agreeing to come to Limerick for this very special occasion. Yours, etc.,
(Hon. Sec. Limerick Music Association)
Church Lane,
Greystones,
Co. Wicklow