The archive of renowned Derry-born composer, arranger and educator Redmond Friel (1907–1979) has been officially handed over to Ulster University, marking a significant moment for music education and cultural preservation in Ireland.
Friel, a prolific figure in Northern Ireland’s musical life, was celebrated for his arrangements of traditional Irish melodies, his original compositions, and his lifelong dedication to teaching. His archive, now preserved for future generations, offers a rich resource for students, researchers and musicians alike.
An event was held on the Derry~Londonderry campus with members of the Friel family (15 October), including Redmond’s son Michael and daughter Isolde Watts, travelling from England and Donegal to mark this occasion.
Guests were welcomed by Professor Malachy Ó Néill, Director of Regional Engagement, and Redmond’s son Michael, spoke on behalf of the Friel family.
This event marked a celebration of Redmond’s life and legacy, and the handover of his archive to the University, during which music was provided by Shaun Ryan and Dr Lauren O'Neill and the Ulster University Chamber Choir, as well as the Ulster University Traditional Music Ensemble.
Dr Nuala McAllister Hart (a former Senior Researcher at Ulster University) spoke about the music in the collection. Dr McAllister Hart wrote the Dictionary of Irish Biography and Encyclopaedia of Music in Ireland entries on Redmond Friel.
Educated in Derry and London, Redmond Friel returned to his hometown to teach at Waterside School, eventually becoming its principal. He also taught music history and theory at St Columb’s College Derry, where he mentored future talents such as composer Kevin O’Connell and musician Paul Brady.
Friel’s contributions extended far beyond the classroom and his work was instrumental in bringing Irish folk music to wider audiences, working on BBC and RTÉ broadcasts. His collaborations with choirs, orchestras, and traditional musicians (including Sean O’Boyle of Armagh, Paterson (Paterson’s Irish song book) helped elevate Irish music on national and international stages.
Redmond Friel’s involvement with the Arts Council of Northern Ireland (serving on the music advisory committee of CEMA 1960–76), Feis Doire Colmcille (serving on its executive committee for over twenty years) and other cultural institutions (North-West Music Society and North-West Arts Festival) highlights his commitment to fostering musical excellence across Ireland.
Reflecting on the Redmond Friel archive donation, Professor Malachy Ó Néill, Director of Regional Engagement, said:
“On behalf of the University, I would like to thank the Friel family and acknowledge their extraordinary generosity in donating the Redmond Friel Archive. This archive is not just a collection of documents - it is a living testament to a life devoted to music, education, and cultural enrichment. It will serve as a beacon for composers, performers and scholars seeking to understand and build upon Ireland’s rich musical traditions.
"The preservation of Redmond’s work ensures that his influence will continue to resonate in concert halls, classrooms, and communities throughout the country, and as we accept this archive into our care, we honour his memory and reaffirm our commitment to the values he embodied: education, creativity, and cultural celebration.”
Janet Peden, Director of Library Services and University Librarian, added:
“We are delighted to be gifted this outstanding cultural asset, and the library is honoured to curate it! I would like to thank the Friel family for trusting us with this valuable archive of Redmond’s works, which will fit perfectly within the rare books and special collection that is available for our students in the University library.”
How to access the archive:
The Redmond Friel archive will be located in the Library on the Derry~Londonderry campus.
Find out more:
If you have any further questions, contact Sarah O'Deorain, Special Collections and Archives Officer (Library), by email to s.odeorain@ulster.ac.uk
