Locals rescue cobweb covered Victorian pipe organ from 1880 in closed Limerick convent

A VICTORIAN pipe organ that has been silent for years will once again enchant audiences at a special Mass in Doon.

The organ, built in 1880, was rescued from spiders’ cobwebs in the closed Convent of Mercy by Doon Parish Choir, in collaboration with Dún Bleisce Historical and Literary Society.

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The society was awarded grant funding of €13,356 from the Heritage Council to restore and relocate the organ to St Patrick’s Church, Doon. Stephen Adams, an organ builder from Carlow, was engaged to complete the project.

Parishioners and visitors will have the opportunity to listen to the “very sonorous and sweet sound” of the pipe organ at a special event in the church this Saturday at 6.30pm. 

The evening will also promote the Irish language and music with a performance of the Ó Riada Mass by Dún Bleisce parish choir. The Mass will be celebrated by parish priest Fr Jimmy Donnelly with Deacon Tom Anderson assisting.

Mairead Quigley is the parish resident organist and her brother Éamonn will be guest accompanist.  He is travelling from the UK especially for the occasion.

The sound of the organ will be enhanced by the choir, directed by Assumpta Uí Riain, who with Micheál Kennedy, of Dún Bleisce Historical and Literary Society, spearheaded the entire project.

While pianists believe that “the pedal is the soul of the piano”. Assumpta describes the pipes as the soul of the organ. “Nothing can replicate the sound of the pipe organ,” she declares. 

Donal Anderson, chairperson of the historical society, said the Convent of Mercy was in existence in Doon for over 150 years from 1865 to 2016 after then parish priest Fr Hickey invited Mercy sisters in Kinsale to come to East Limerick.

“It was central to the village, parish and further afield. The convent developed incrementally over the decades, establishing extensive primary and secondary boarding and day schools. 

“Up to 800 students attended the school staffed by 50 Sisters at its peak.

“The Victorian pipe organ is a tangible and intangible link to the musical heritage associated with the Convent of Mercy over the generations,” said Donal.

In reviewing the application for grant funding, the Heritage Council said the project holds significant cultural importance as it “preserves a vital piece of musical and historical heritage”.

“The organ, with its rich history and connection to the Convent of Mercy, meets all the criteria for conservation. 

“Its relocation to St Patrick’s Parish Church ensures accessibility and inclusion, allowing future generations to appreciate its historical value and enjoy its soulful music in congregational worship and community events. 

“An organised, experienced, and competent group will ensure this project is seen through to completion. It is a distinctive and interesting idea for National Heritage Week,” say the Heritage Council.

Those planning to attend Saturday evening’s Mass in Doon are advised to arrive early as a large crowd is expected. A special commemorative booklet will be distributed. 

See the Dún Bleisce Historical and Literary Society’s Facebook page for more on the project, including choir director Assumpta’s talented daughter, Ellen, beautifully telling the story of Ceolán while sitting at the organ.