The following article appeared in the North Belfast News on November 17th 2007:
When Fortwilliam Musical Society was founded in 1977, it was included in the group constitution that the Society would encourage the musical talents of the youth in North Belfast. This year it celebrated 30 years treading the boards. The conception of a musical society in the area was the inspiration of well-known and respected singing teacher, John Patterson. However, at the time, sectarian strife was growing in North Belfast and driving a wedge between communities. John knew instinctively that if anything could bond together a community it was music and from here the idea of Fortwilliam Musical Society was born.
He wanted the group to have a long lifespan and as he was getting on in years he sought people who would be determined to see the project through. Among his pupils that year, John identified two exceptional people who had all the credentials and ability to become key figures in the society. These boys were Gerry Deignan and Bill Curran. On a spring evening in 1977, they held a meeting that resulted in their first Christmas concert and subsequently a production of The Pirates of Penzance in early 1978.
To fulfil John Patterson's ideal of promoting a community harmony as well as tapping into the best of local musical talent, it was decided that young musicians from local schools should be invited to join the orchestra to accompany the singing. As a result, Gerry Deignan formed an orchestra that supported the early productions of the society and many of these young people were later to find their way onto the professional stage.
Billy, who recently passed away, went on to become chairman of the Society. "Billy was so enthusiastic about the group and was brilliant at getting people involved" said Secretary Emma Phoenix. "So much so that his wife set up a bursary in his memory."
Until the society moved to a commercial venue, productions were to be performed jointly in the Eakenhead Memorial Hall on North Circular Road and the assembly Hall of Little Flower Girls' School on the Somerton Road. Energised by the success of the first concert, a rehearsal schedule was put in place that would lead to the cementing of the Society.
For the greater part of the past 25 years, the musical direction of the society has been provided by William Cairns, whose energy, knowledge and experience has placed the company on an almost professional par. At the AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Societies) awards in Killarney last year, Fortwilliam received Best Female Voice, Best Chorus and 2nd place for Best Overall Show. They were also nominated for choreography.
"To be even nominated for these awards is quite a big deal, as it shows recognition from around Ireland." said Emma. "It is also wonderful to see that many of our founding members are still deeply involved with all aspects of productions and when someone leaves a role it is usually filled by a member of the Youth Group."
"In fact, the Youth Production in April is being co-directed by former members of the Youth Group who stepped up and took responsibility for it." said Emma. "That's what gives us our edge and authenticity. There are over a hundred members from all over Northern Ireland and the age range is from 15 to 80 in the adult group. The span of generations is evident in the society, as many of the members have family links and that causes us to gel even more and keeps us tied together so firmly," said Emma.
The society has a wide social calendar and is planning an Anniversary Ball for next May. "Although it is an amateur society and no particular skills are needed as such, the run-up to production can be a busy time. Those hoping to get involved will be asked to dedicate two evenings a week and dancers will be asked to work weekends as well," said Emma.
Anyone who has an interest in music, dance or drama can become involved with the society; all that is required is enthusiasm and a willingness to pitch in. "This has been our most successful year to date. To win the AIMS awards in Killarney was a major boost and has bolstered all the current members as well as raising the profile for future productions. William Cairns who directed the first production of My Fair Lady in Ireland, will be bringing the production to the Waterfront next year which is also set to be a huge success. Although this is our biggest year, things are looking promising so we are excited about the future."
By Vicky Neill