Night of remembrance and music honours two Kildare greats
Liam O'Flynn playing the two pieces in Kilcullen in 2008, and sculptor Noel Scullion, whose 'spear' is a centrepiece of the Dun Ailinne Interpretive Park
AN emotional and inspiring night of remembrance and music took place in Kilcullen Town Hall recently as the community came together to honour the legacy of two muchâloved figures, the late artist Noel Scullion and legendary uilleann piper Liam O’Flynn.
Hosted by Kilcullen Community Action, the event celebrated the remarkable contributions of both men to the Dún Ailinne Interpretive Park, a space dedicated to preserving and sharing the heritage of Dún Ailinne.
The evening was marked by a powerful sense of community, belonging, and pride in local history. Among those present were members of both families — Noel's sons Jack and Joe Scullion and his sister Catherine, and Liam's wife Jane.
Those in attendance reflected on how Scullion and O’Flynn helped bring the story of Dún Ailinne to life through art and music.
Their work, it was noted, has left an enduring imprint on Kilcullen and continues to inspire both residents and visitors.
The site, which is on private land, is currently under consideration as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status as part of the ancient Royal sites of Ireland.
Noel Scullion's remarkable sculpture, based on a spearhead found during archaeological excavations at the site in the late 1970s, forms a central feature of the Interpretive Park.
His work has become a symbol of creativity, connection, and respect for heritage. Noel Clare spoke warmly of Noel’s generosity, his artistic courage, and the unique way he brought meaning to public spaces.
A video was played of the installation of the sculpture back in 2008; it was an insight into the actual work involved in the piece, the accuracy, the weight, and the care involved.
Ray Kelly spoke of the master uilleann piper O'Flynn as one of Ireland’s most treasured musicians.
"Liam’s influence continues to resonate both locally and nationally," he said. "His artistry, humility, and deep musical tradition have left a lasting imprint on Kilcullen."
There were shared personal stories of Liam’s kindness, talent, and unwavering dedication to Irish music.
The musical highlight of the night was a performance by acclaimed AllâIreland-winning uilleann piper Colm Broderick from County Carlow, the current TG4 Young Musician of the Year, who played on the very pipes once played by Liam O’Flynn.
The two pieces, composed by O'Flynn for the dedication of the Interpretive Park in 2008, were and , commissioned from him by KCA and sponsored at the time by Sir Anthony and Lady O'Reilly of Castlemartin.
Joined by Niamh Dalton on concertina, Broderick’s playing filled the hall and was described as a fitting and moving tribute to O’Flynn’s memory.
Art pieces created by Emmet Dalton, a former colleague and friend of Noel Scullion's, and by local artist Kieran Behan, also a friend, were presented to the families of both men, and to the two main drivers of the project when it started back in 2002, Kieran Forde and Noel Clare.
Kilcullen Community Action was praised for organising what was widely regarded as a touching and fitting tribute to two great artists, ensuring that their legacy and heritage will continue to resonate in the community for years to come.
