From Vet to Virtuoso: Noel Fitzpatrick’s Unexpected Musical Journey with Brian May

Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick, renowned for his pioneering operate in veterinary neuro-orthopaedic surgery, has revealed a surprising second act: a foray into the world of rock music, nurtured by an unlikely mentor – Queen’s Brian May. What began as a childhood passion ignited by Led Zeppelin and Queen has blossomed into a stage presence and a unique musical partnership.

A Childhood Spark

Fitzpatrick’s love affair with music began in his youth in Ballyfin, Co Laois, Ireland. He recalls discovering rock music by chance while tinkering with a homemade radio. “I found an old Sony radio on a scrap heap in Mountmellick and I put an aerial into it using a coat hanger,” he explained. “At that time, I was about 10 or 11 and I had never heard rock music. I tuned in by chance to Radio Luxembourg and the first rock song I ever heard was Led Zeppelin’s Stairway To Heaven.” Following Led Zeppelin, he embraced Black Sabbath, Queen, and David Bowie, even crafting a makeshift guitar from twine and a fertilizer sack.

From Slane Castle to the Stage

Fitzpatrick’s first live rock experience was particularly impactful: Queen’s 1986 performance at Slane Castle, despite the rain. “That was my first ever rock concert and this guy in a tracksuit and a cloak came out with a crown on his head in a big puff of smoke and with a man with big hair behind him and my world exploded,” he said, referring to Freddie Mercury and Brian May. This early inspiration remained dormant for decades while he pursued his veterinary career.

An Unlikely Friendship

The connection with Brian May wasn’t forged through the music industry, but through a shared love of animals. Fitzpatrick mended hedgehogs for May at his wildlife centre. This led to a surprising invitation in 2023 when May, while on tour with Queen, stopped by Fitzpatrick’s practice.

Learning from a Legend

May didn’t hesitate to encourage Fitzpatrick’s long-held musical aspirations. “He comes in in his shorts and he goes, ‘Right, the time is now, what song are we going to play?’” Fitzpatrick recounted. Despite his initial lack of guitar skills, May taught him the chords to Queen’s “One Vision.” Fitzpatrick then embarked on a tour, learning to play in front of audiences, even receiving advice from May during performances: “There is no such thing as a disappointing chord, dear boy, there’s only a chord with attitude or without attitude.”

A Gift and Continued Support

May’s encouragement extended beyond lessons; he gifted Fitzpatrick one of his own guitars. Fitzpatrick also received a guitar from Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, and encouragement from Peter Gabriel and Mike Rutherford.

The Noel Fitzpatrick Band

Fitzpatrick now fronts The Noel Fitzpatrick Band, featuring accomplished musicians, and has performed at festivals like The Greenfields Festival in Co Laois. He emphasizes the joy and therapeutic value music brings to his life, stating, “For me to get to delve into this world has been a balm for my soul.”