The Droichead Arts Centre in Drogheda hosted a memorable and moving musical collaboration as the Julianstown Youth Orchestra joined forces with singer-songwriter SJ McArdle to present a special orchestral recording and video launch of “Tidewaiter”.
“Tidewaiter” was written by SJ McArdle as part of his song-cycle PORT, produced by Droichead Arts Centre and supported by Drogheda Port Company, and its accompanying album Old Ghosts In The Water. In the song, a retiring customs officer (a ‘tidewaiter’) looks back on the glory days of his youth, rummaging the incoming vessels at the old customs station at Queensborough, sniffing out contraband and unpaid dues in the name of the King.
The young musicians of the Julianstown Youth Orchestra specifically chose this song, under the musical expertise of orchestral directors Lorcan Daly and Maia Matthews, with arrangement by Paul O’Brien, they collectively transformed Tidewaiter into a beautiful, rich, and emotive musical composition. The accompanying video production was the result of a strong collaborative effort between Brian Connolly of Bang Bang Visuals and audio collaborators Breffni Holohan and John Mc Govern. Together, they produced a visually compelling piece that complements the music and reflects Drogheda’s deep connection to its port.
The launch marked the culmination of months of dedication and collaboration between the talented
youth orchestra, SJ McArdle, and project partners Drogheda Port Company and Droichead Arts Centre. The event was a lovely celebration for the families and supporters of the orchestra members to come together and share in the achievements of the young musicians – something that is often missed in the routine of weekly rehearsals and quick drop-offs.
Patricia Hegarty, Chairperson of the Julianstown Youth Orchestra, reflected on the occasion: “This was a very special evening for our young people and their families. It allowed everyone to come together and experience the results of their hard work in a meaningful and memorable way. We are incredibly proud of all involved.”
This initiative was made possible through the support of Drogheda Port Company, whose Corporate Social Responsibility programme continues to play a vital role in supporting the arts and youth development in the region. CEO of Drogheda Port, Paul Fleming, praised the evening, saying: “This celebration demonstrates how business and community through the arts can come together to create a unique cultural experience rooted in Drogheda’s rich history.
The collaboration is a stunning orchestral reimagining of Tidewaiter. Sweeping and deeply moving,the piece has been brought to life with remarkable sensitivity and skill by the orchestra, while preserving the heart of the original song. The port itself holds a long and storied history, and this project offers a powerful way to share that story, not only through facts, but through music, emotion, and narrative.
While these songs are deeply rooted in Drogheda, their spirit is universal, something any port town, anywhere in the world, can recognize”.
The recording can be found on the Drogheda Port Company website and Facebook page as well as
Droichead Arts Centre social media platforms.
