Ciarán Cannon Trades Politics for the Piano
Former Minister of State Ciarán Cannon is embracing his musical passions after two decades in politics, recently performing with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and reflecting on the increasingly toxic nature of modern political life.
From the Dáil to the National Concert Hall
Ciarán Cannon experienced a mix of “terror and ecstasy” as he took to the stage at the National Concert Hall to perform a song he composed, accompanied by the renowned RTÉ Concert Orchestra as reported by Hot Press. The performance marked a significant moment for the former politician, allowing him to reconnect with his lifelong love of music.
A Family Tradition
Cannon, a Fine Gael TD for Galway East from 2011 to 2024, comes from a musical family. His father and grandfather were both musicians, and he sees continuing that tradition as important. He played piano with the orchestra, conducted by David Brophy, and featured two of his compositions on folk singer Sean Keane’s new album, including the title track “Gratitude.”
Political Career and Departure
Cannon served as a Teachta Dála (TD) for Galway East from 2011 to 2024, and previously as a Senator. He held ministerial positions from 2011 to 2014 and again from 2017 to 2020. Before entering politics, he worked as a planning official for Galway City Council and Dublin City Council, and as CEO of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust. He was as well Leader of the Progressive Democrats from 2008 to 2009, becoming the party’s last elected leader.
Finding Fulfillment in Music
Cannon’s decision to focus on music comes as he expresses disillusionment with the current political climate. He acknowledges the increasingly toxic elements within party politics and finds solace and fulfillment in his creative pursuits.
The RTÉ Concert Orchestra’s Expanding Reach
The collaboration with Cannon and Keane is part of a broader trend for the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, which is actively seeking to collaborate with a diverse range of artists to reach wider audiences. The orchestra, resident at the National Concert Hall since 1981, performs a wide variety of music, from symphonic works to popular and traditional tunes.
“Gratitude” Album Success
Sean Keane’s album “Gratitude,” featuring Cannon’s compositions, achieved immediate success, reaching number one in iTunes sales worldwide in the Folk category. The album’s arrangements were created by Gavin Murphy, with David Brophy conducting the RTÉ Concert Orchestra.