Irish Bard Thomas Moore (1779-1852)
Irish poet, lyricist and musician Thomas Moore, who wrote compelling lyrics to many of Ireland's ancient melodies, died on this day of February 25, 1852. His ten-volume collection of Moore's Melodies , published between 1808 and 1834, helped revitalize interest in Irish music that was in danger of being marginalized and forgotten. For a full story on Moore's achievements, read Ireland's Minstrel Boy Gets His Encore in the Irish Echo. In Boston, Moore's Melodies quickly found their way into the city's musical community; with several of his songs published as early as 1811. His songs, particularly Last Rose of Summer , were performed as part of Boston's musical repertoire by famous visiting performers like singer Jenny Lind and violinist Ole Bull . Upon learning of his death in 1852, Boston Pilot publisher Patrick Donahoe and other leaders formed a Thomas Moore Club to perpetuate his music. In 1869 ...