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from Compositions by Roisin McGrory
Growing up on the Brae Road, Burnfoot, Inishowen, we had a clear view of Grianán of Aileach, and Doherty’s Castles at Inch and Burt. We also had a view of the remains of Elagh Castle the ancient centre of the power of the Cinéal Eoghain.
I composed Where Aileach Guards, in 2015, which was a difficult period in my life.
The title is a tribute to book by the same name by historian Brian Bonner, Culdaff that traces Inishowen’s history and influence in Ulster over the centuries.
While reading this book I was struck by the fact that even when everything else might be lost, culture and identity are the often the only things we have left to hold onto.
This tune appeared on my album The Brae Road (2016)
