A voice for the bicentenary of St. Colman’s and St. Patrick’s Cathedral
In 2029, St. Colman’s and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Newry will celebrate 200 years since its foundation, marking a major milestone in Irish religious and cultural history.
As one of the first cathedrals constructed after Catholic Emancipation, it remains a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and identity for the people of the Diocese of Dromore and beyond.
To mark this historic occasion, the Cathedral Parish is inviting applications from vocal artists and musicians to record a specially commissioned song entitled The Granite Star. Written in the style of a modern acoustic ballad with folk roots, the song is rich in poetic lyricism and spiritual depth. It reflects on the Cathedral’s foundation, its architectural evolution, and its enduring role as a sacred presence at the heart of Newry for two centuries.
This is not a hymn in the traditional sense, but a contemporary and emotionally resonant piece, designed to speak to the past, present, and future of our faith community. With Christ as our “pole star, burning bright,” the lyrics celebrate the Cathedral’s role as a spiritual guide through joy, sorrow, and change.
We are seeking an artist with a warm, expressive voice and a sensitivity to both tradition and modern musical storytelling. The finished recording will be a centrepiece of the 2029 bicentenary celebrations and may also be featured in commemorative services, media broadcasts, and archival recordings.
Why this matters?
The foundation stone of Newry Cathedral was laid in 1825, it was a time when Irish Catholics were emerging from centuries of oppression, the construction of a grand cathedral was a profound act of spiritual defiance and hope. Architect Thomas Duff’s vision created a building of remarkable grace and strength, a symbol of a faith no longer hidden.
Over the past 200 years, the Cathedral has stood as a central building, hosting countless baptisms, marriages, funerals, and acts of service and solidarity. This anniversary offers us all a moment to honour that legacy and to contribute to its next chapter.
If you would like to be considered as the recording artist for The Granite Star, please email your interest to: www.newrycathedralparish.org