Liam Lawton
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Liam Lawton |
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Fr. Liam Lawton is an award winning multi platinum, [1] Irish, singer-songwriter and Roman Catholic priest. He received his theological training at St Patrick's College, Maynooth, where he was influenced by Sean Lavery, the Director of Sacred Music. He was ordained in 1984 and was based in a parish in Carlow. Discovered in 2004 by record giants EMI [1] who signed him for a number or albums. His EMI début, Another World, was released in Ireland later that year. This album achieved double platinum status and was followed by his second album Time which also was hugely successful. [2] Time was recorded with the National Philharmonic Orchestra in the city of Prague.[1] Lawton’s music has been recognized for its unique quality. His poetic lyrics are inspired by many sources including the ancient texts of Celtic Ireland, he is also at home writing contemporary music. Much of Liam’s inspiration is drawn from the landscape of Ireland with its own dark and rich history. His melodies are full of pathos and can stir the heart and his music has been used in many an auspicious occasions for example the memorial services of 9/11 to concerts in such places as the Vatican, The White House and The Chicago Symphony Hall to the weddings of pop stars and Glitterati. Liam’s choral music is used by choirs all over the English-speaking world and has been translated into Spanish, German and Swedish.[1]
In the year 2000 Liam’s work was recognized in the US when he was invited to compose a work for the Irish American community in Chicago under the patronage of Mayor Richard Daley and his wife Maggie. This work was performed in Chicago Symphony Hall with narrator screen veteran Gregory Peck. In the 10 years of the events existence Liam is the only composer that has been invited to return at least four times and has had such guest artists as John Cusack and John Malkovich narrate his work. Over this time Liam has also toured Sweden and Norway achieving top ten status in the Norwegian Charts.[1]
In 2006, Lawton performed and record his new compositions. Set in Dublin’s docklands this event was the first of its kind to be staged on water in Ireland’s capital. The concert which took place over two nights was recorded for high definition DVD/CD release in to the US and Worldwide markets in 2007. This unique special event, with a stunning stage design by Alan Farquarson, featured guests Roisin O’Reilly and boy soprano Joseph McManners,[3] the full Irish Film Orchestra and Chorus along with traditional Irish instruments. The event was attended by almost 5,000 people. The orchestral arrangements were done by the world renowned composer and arranger Nick Ingman whose films include Shakespeare In Love, Cold Mountain, Billy Elliott and Finding Neverland.[1][4]
References
- ^ a b c d e f Liam Lawton Biography at www.kandle.ie (accessed May 14, 2008)
- ^ LIAM LAWTON NEW ALBUM: TIME RELEASED: 4TH NOVEMBER 2005 at www.tenortours.com (accessed May 14, 2008)
- ^ Joseph McManners Official News Updates at www.joemcmanners.com (accessed May 14, 2008)
- ^ Liam Lawton - Biography at www.windowsmedia.com (accessed May 14, 2008)