Gaoth Dobhair teacher hopes for Euro vote on Friday
Gaoth Dobhair's own, Maria McCool, who will be vying for a place in the Eurovision on the Late Late Show on February 24. 1902MNP13
Gaoth Dobhair primary school teacher Maria McCool will be seeking to represent Ireland in the Eurovison Song Contest when she performs ‘Mistaken’ in the Song for Europe on the Late Late Show next week.
Maria has been singing since she was a very young girl at national school under the tutelage of Anna Bean Úi Ghallachóir. During her time in Pobail Scoil Ghaoth Dobhair, where her father Seán was principal, she won many occalades by taking part in All Ireland competitions throughout the country. During her tenure in Pobails Scoil Ghaoth Dobhair, Maria was taught by local music teacher, Máire Bean Ní Bhraonáin, mother of the famous Brennan family of Clannad fame in the region.
Maria lives who lives in Kilmessan, County Meath has recently been described by Frank McNamara as “an exceptional talent whose voice is mesmerising and alluring”. The singer’s captivating voice has been favourably compared to that of Enya and Dolores O’Riordan of The Cranberries.
A primary school teacher in Gaelscoil na Ríthe, Dunshaughlin, she was approached to sing ‘Mistaken’ by songwriter Edele Lynch, ex-lead vocalist with popstars B*Witched. Edele wrote most of the songs for the B*Witched debut album and has also written songs for Girls Aloud and The Sugababes.
The 2012 Song for Europe is one of five to be performed live on “The Late Late Show” on February, 24, when the public will vote for Ireland’s entry for the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest.
“When I first heard Maria’s haunting Celtic voice, I knew for definite that I had the right singer for the song - there would be no need for auditions” Edele Lynch said.
Maria said she was delighted to be asked by Edele to “sing this beautiful song for such a prestigious competition. I am really looking forward to this unique musical experience”.
In 1998, the singer’s debut album ‘Ailleog’ was widely acclaimed and, in 2009, she released a 16-track album ‘Doagh’, both produced by Frank McNamara in his Park House Studios at Rathbeggan.
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Monday 21 May 2012
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