Thomas Connellan facts for kids

Thomas Connellan (around 1625 – 1698) was a famous Irish harp player and a talented composer. He created many beautiful tunes during his lifetime.

About Thomas Connellan

Thomas Connellan was born around 1625 in a place called Cloonmahon in County Sligo, Ireland. Both he and his brother, William Connellan, became skilled players of the Early Irish harp. Harps were very popular instruments in Ireland during that time.

His Music and Famous Tunes

Thomas Connellan is believed to have composed a huge number of tunes, possibly between 700 and 800! Even though most of these songs are no longer known today, some of his most famous pieces have survived. These include:

• "Molly St. George"
• "The Dawning of the Day" (also known by its Irish name "Fáinne Geal an Lae" or "The Golden Star")
• "Love in Secret"
• "Planxty Davis"

"The Dawning of the Day" is a very special tune. It sounds a bit like the melody used for the famous poem On Raglan Road by Irish poet Patrick Kavanagh, though they are not exactly the same.

What Others Said About Him

Another well-known harpist named Arthur O'Neill (who lived from 1734 to 1818) spoke about Thomas Connellan. O'Neill said that Connellan was a "great harper" and played very well.

Connellan became quite famous in Scotland, especially in Edinburgh. He was known for a tune called "Lochaber." Some people thought he composed it, but it was actually created by another musician named Miles O'Reilly. Still, Connellan's performances, including this tune, helped him gain a lot of respect in Edinburgh. He even held an important position in the city before he passed away there.