Madam, - We are shocked at the news that the Feis Ceoil's future is in doubt following the loss of its sponsorship by Siemens and strongly support the call by its current president, Maurice Flynn, for funding, whether from private or public resources, to ensure the future of this unique festival ("Can the Feis survive its popularity?", Weekend Review, March 8th).
Mr Flynn rightly feels the Government has a particular responsibility here. The Feis Ceoil is both an artistic and educational enterprise which costs the taxpayer very little, thanks to the huge input of voluntary work by the organising committee, but benefits the country greatly from the high standards in musical performance achieved by thousands of young people. Even more important is the development of the self-discipline and patience needed to achieve these standards. The €100,000 mentioned by Mr Flynn needed to ensure the Feis Ceoil keeps pace with changing times would be money well spent.
The Feis Ceoil is justly proud of its century-long tradition of showcasing young Irish musical talent. Cora Venus Lunny, one of the many outstanding young musicians whose careers have been launched by the Feis down the years, is quoted in Ms McCann's excellent article as saying, "If the Feis Ceoil had to shut down for good it would be a disgrace and a very poor reflection on how much culture is valued in this country". We heartily agree. - Yours, etc,
AIDAN MEAGHER,
Hon Sec, Friends of Classical Music (formerly Music Association of Ireland),
South Great George's Street,
Dublin 2.