Sir James Galway 'deeply moved' at Ulster University doctorate: 'First flautist in history to achieve true international stardom'
World renowned flautist Sir James Galway has said it was "deeply moving" to be recognised with an honorary doctorate in the city that shaped who he is "in every sense".
He was speaking at a special ceremony at Ulster University’s Belfast campus on Saturday, where he was given the university’s highest honour.
The university said he is the first flautist in history to achieve true international stardom as a solo artist.
Born in Belfast in 1939, his journey has taken him from local flute bands to principal flautist of the Berlin Philharmonic.
Known internationally as 'The Man with the Golden Flute', he has sold more than 30 million albums and inspired generations of musicians.
His lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent continues through his and Lady Jeanne Galway’s teaching and masterclasses, and their Galway Flute Academy.
Reflecting on the award, Sir James said: “Coming home to Belfast for this honour has meant a great deal to me. This city shaped who I am – musically, personally, and in every sense – and its influence has stayed with me throughout my life and career.
" To stand here today and receive recognition from Ulster University, at the heart of a vibrant and ambitious new Belfast, is deeply moving."
Paying tribute, Chancellor Dr Colin Davidson, said: “Sir James Galway has carried the spirit of Belfast onto the world stage with distinction and humanity. His journey from his early musical roots to international acclaim
resonates deeply with the University’s mission to foster talent and create opportunity.”
Performing at the event were the EA Music Belfast Advanced Chamber Ensemble, The City of Belfast Youth Orchestra and the Ulster University Choir.
The Ulster Orchestra Horn Quartet gave a performance of “Fanfare for Sir James Galway”, a new composition by Professor Frank Lyons.
Sir James began his musical journey in a family steeped in flute playing and community music-making.
A natural prodigy, he won local competitions from a young age before studying in London at the Royal College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music, and later in Paris with renowned masters of the French flute tradition.
He has performed in every major concert hall in the world, and built a recording catalogue spanning Bach to Billy Joel.
His groundbreaking collaborations include work with The Chieftains, Sir Elton John, and his celebrated performances on Howard Shore’s film scores for The Lord of the Rings.
Last week Sir James told the PA news agency that it feels “great” to come back home to Belfast.
He said: “This is where I grew up, this is where I learnt to play the flute and to this day it remains part of me.”
He credits his uncle Joe for teaching him, from age nine.
“He was great because he could play the flute and he then asked me if I'd like to join a band called the Onward Flute Band. I said sure, so he gave me the music to learn."
Sir James added: “I couldn't wait for uncle Joe to come home from work.
“Before he had sat down to have dinner, I would be blowing a flute in his ear.”
An exhibition featuring Sir James Galway is open to the public at the Belfast campus of Ulster University until 5pm on Thursday 27 November.