Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 - 1791) is widely regarded as the greatest musical genius who ever lived. From his first composition, K.1, a Minuet composed at the age of five, to his last, the unfinished Requiem, K.626, Mozart displayed unsurpassed technical virtuosity, effortless facility, an extraordinary emotional range and a complete mastery of all the musical styles and genres of his day. Mozart's finest achievements were his operas, particularly his comedies, which rank him among the most sublime of dramatists. We are proud to count him as one of our members and to celebrate his music.

The 'Mozart Gala Concert' starred Limerick born tenor, Paul McNamara, soprano Kathleen Tynan, and pianists Dearbhla Collins and Karishmeh Felfeli. The Provincial Grandmaster of North Munster R.W. Hugh Milne, stated that the concert was held for two reasons. The first was to honour Mozart, who, at the age of 28, joined a Masonic Lodge in Vienna. He went on to become a Master Mason, during which period he composed his Freemason's Funeral Music, and also the music used for the opening and closing of a Lodge.

He also composed his opera Don Giovanni and his three great symphonies, the E Flat, the G minor and the C-major, as well as a great number of concertos and chamber music works, during his time as a freemason.

"His last great opera, The Magic Flute, which he conducted just before his final illness, has always been accepted as a Masonic opera" explained Mr Milne." Musicians assert that even the music has much craft significance, beginning in the overture with its three solemn chords in the brass."

The second reason the members decided to host the concert is to further their committed aim of integrating their new centre into the local community.

"We pride ourselves on being a good community neighbour," said Mr. Milne. "In our lovely new building, we have a public museum and a community centre, which we are anxious to share with local community groups. We see our building as much more than bricks and mortar. We want it to be like a home for the community, a catalyst for greater good enhancing unity and cohesion in our society."

The Gala Concert was attended by 100 guests who were engrossed by the quality of the performance and the magnificence of the beautiful surroundings in the venue. Their enjoyment of the evening was further enhanced by the delicious fork supper that was served in the dining room during the interval.