The Search is on for performers on the Convent of Mercy Choir CD

Members of the Convent of Mercy Choir are urged to come forward to discover more information about a CD recorded by the late Martin Costello.
 
Martin, originally from Kiltormer but lived in New Jersey was an accomplished fiddler and host to his own radio show “The Irish Roadshow.” On his travels, he recorded many CDs many of which he brought back to America and have never been heard locally.
 
Martin took great pride in his music collection and often referred to it as the greatest library of Irish music and songs in the world. Martin’s daughter, Máiread expressed “He spoke of the many trips he took back to Ireland to record the many fabulous sessions. My family often listens to the CDs he made over the years and we love to hear his voice when he introduces the songs,” she added “He came a long way from recordings in pubs, from reel to reels to albums to cassettes and ultimately CDs both on the radio and then what would have seemed impossible when he started out." Martin sadly passed away in March 2014.
 
While researching material for a second recording featuring material from Martin Costello's vast archive, Enda Creavan received a number of CDs from Máiréad, one of which was a recording of the Convent of Mercy Choir. The material is undated and there is no further information other than the track listings. Enda is Hoping to track down the members of the choir to find out more about the recording. He expressed “This music has never been heard here before as it was brought to America after recording,” he added “I feel its very important to archive this music as it is an important part of our local history.”
 
The recording features the songs: Kevin Barry, Two little Orphans, An old woman of the Road,Come back to Eireann, By Kilkenny's Lakes and Fells, Galway Bay and Silent Night.
 
The two people who are accredited on the sleeve notes on the CD are Fionnuala Lyseth and Mary Grenham who recorded a sting for Martin's Radio Programme. Enda is urging anyone who may know these people to contact them as they will help further his research.
 
The recordings of the Convent of Mercy Choir are available below: Anyone with any information, please email Enda at [email protected].