St. Colman's Choral Operatic Society, Cobh.

"A programme of the production of The Lily of Killarney in Cobh, Co. Cork, 1942. Under the baton of Dr. Staf Gebruers, for many years renowned Carillonneur at St. Colman's Cathedral Cobh. The programme, one of my late parent's collection, brings to mind the circle of musical friends who visited our home for practice and entertainment. My mother, Mona, nee Murphy, playing the piano. My father, Jim McGrath: 'cellist. I remember now, from a very young age, the thriling cacophany of tuning instruments rising up from the orchesrtral pit of Cork Opera House. Dad looking so smart in his black dress suit and bow-tie - me waving proudly down at him. The strings of Professor Aloys Fleischman's Symphony orchestra magically drawing the curtains apart, revealing Joan Denise Morriarty's Ballet Company, effortlessly pirouetting, like elegant swans crossing a restful lake. "