New Charles Wood Sculpture Unveiled At St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh

A new tribute to the renowned Armagh-born composer Charles Wood was unveiled at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral on Thursday (August 20) as part of the Charles Wood Festival of Music.

The first-ever specially commissioned Jesmonite bust, created by Islandmagee-based sculptor Naomi Sander of Studio Sander and Sander, was unveiled by the Festival’s Patron, Sir John Rutter, in the presence of Festival supporters, clergy, musicians and other guests.

The sculpture, which took five months to complete, celebrates the life and legacy of Charles Wood, whose music continues to be performed by choirs around the world a century after his death.

Richard Yarr, Chair of the Charles Wood Festival of Music, said: “It was a privilege to witness the unveiling of this beautiful sculpture in the place where Charles Wood’s musical journey began. We are grateful to Naomi Sander for creating such a fitting tribute and to Sir John Rutter for helping us celebrate Charles Wood’s extraordinary legacy. We hope the bust will inspire visitors and musicians for many years to come.”

Sculptor Naomi Sander said: “Seeing the sculpture unveiled in St Patrick’s Cathedral has been a very special moment. Charles Wood’s music is a living legacy, still performed and loved around the world, and I hope this bust encourages people to discover more about the man behind that remarkable body of work. It has been an honour to create this tribute in the place where his musical story began.”

Sir John Rutter said: "What a joy to be here in Armagh to pay tribute to the life and work of Sir Charles Wood. What a wonderful legacy to have this amazing sculpted bust residing in the very church where his musical journey began.”

The Charles Wood Festival of Music continues until Sunday (August 23).

For more information on events over the next few days: Home | Charles Wood Festival