New Charles Wood Sculpture To Be Unveiled In Armagh By Sir John Rutter

The Charles Wood Festival of Music will mark another significant milestone in celebrating one of Armagh’s greatest musical sons with the unveiling of the first-ever bust of composer Charles Wood at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral on Thursday 20 August.

The specially commissioned bust, created in Jesmonite by sculptor Naomi Sander of Studio Sander and Sander, will be unveiled by the Festival’s Patron, the internationally renowned composer and conductor Sir John Rutter.

Charles Wood (1866–1926), who was born in the Cathedral Close and began his musical career as a chorister in St Patrick’s Cathedral, is recognised as one of the leading composers of Anglican church music.

Richard Yarr, Chair of the Charles Wood Festival of Music, said: “This is a proud moment for the Festival and for Armagh. Naomi Sander has created a wonderful tribute to Charles Wood, and we are delighted that Sir John Rutter has agreed to unveil it. The sculpture will provide a lasting reminder of Charles Wood’s remarkable contribution to sacred music and his enduring connection with St Patrick’s Cathedral.”

Naomi Sander said: “Creating this bust has been both a privilege and a responsibility. I wanted to capture not only Charles Wood the individual, but to reflect the fact that his music remains a living legacy. It is wonderful to know that the sculpture will stand in the Cathedral where his musical journey began, connecting visitors with a composer whose work continues to inspire people today.”

The unveiling forms part of the Charles Wood Festival’s ongoing work to promote the life and music of one of Ireland’s most influential composers.

The unveiling takes place in the cathedral at 5pm, and everyone is welcome to attend.

For more information on the festival, which runs from August 16-23: Home | Charles Wood Festival