Duke Special Dundalk bound for County Museum 30th

Chart topping singer/songwriter Duke Special is set to perform as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations at County Museum, Dundalk. Louth County Council says it is delighted to confirm that Duke Special will lead a very unique event in the Museum on Wednesday 27 March at 8.00 p.m.

Well known for hits such as ‘Freewheel’, his most recent album, Blood for Ghosts, is the result of his encounter with a collection of song sheets (1840s-1940s), which now resides at the Princess Grace Library, Monaco.

Duke will describe his creative process, playing songs from the collection as well as songs he has written in response to poetry, and visual art. How respectful or faithful should a writer be to the original source of inspiration? What are the challenges and considerations for such writing? Expect lots of songs, chat and a glimpse into the worlds of painters, poets and songwriters.  

In announcing the lecture Louth County Council Museum Curator, Brian Walsh, said: “The theme of the Museum’s anniversary is Collection, Memory and Legacy. Over the past number of weeks, we have been exceptionally lucky to be in a position to look at and examine the ways in which history and culture combine to remain relevant in our day-to-day lives, Duke’s talk will again highlight the continuing relevance of collection, memory and legacy. 

"The issues he had to address in writing and developing his album reflect the many of the challenges that museums face in developing their own respective projects, most notably how to make the past accessible to a modern audience in a way that is meaningful. 

"As importantly though it emphasises the importance of collection; in that all of these projects require a starting point, and in these instances everything begins with the collection. It promises to be a fascinating evening.”

Admission to the event is free, but bookings, which will be limited to two per person, must be made by contacting the County Museum from Wednesday March 13th at 042 9392999, or by email museum@louthcoco.ie.